On June 6, 2024, our world changed when Gracee was diagnosed with cancer. There were no warning signs—no symptoms at all. It was just a routine ultrasound that led to the news no parent ever wants to hear.
Since then, she has been undergoing chemotherapy. While she doesn’t have physical limitations, our family has had to make big adjustments. We aren’t able to go out in public much, which has been tough, but keeping her safe is our priority.
Through it all, Gracee remains her sweet, loving self. She absolutely adores animals—they bring her so much joy. No matter what she’s facing, her love for them never fades. Her strength and spirit continue to inspire us every single day.
Oakleigh was diagnosed with cancer at the end of October this year after her dad discovered a mass bulging from her stomach. Shortly after, she underwent surgery to remove her left kidney along with the tumor that had overtaken it.
Her treatments have required avoiding large crowds due to her lowered immune system from chemotherapy, but her sweet and joyful spirit remains unchanged. Despite the challenges, Oakleigh’s diagnosis has brought her family closer together, especially as they adjusted to life with a newborn—her baby sister arrived just two weeks after her diagnosis.
Oakleigh is a bright light in her family’s life. She almost always has a smile on her face and adores her baby sister. Her dad is the one who can make her laugh the most. She loves animals, Elmo, Poppy from Trolls, Doc McStuffins, and Minnie Mouse. Oakleigh enjoys playing with her baby dolls, dancing to music, and embracing her playful, loving nature.
Through it all, Oakleigh’s resilience and sweetness continue to inspire everyone around her.
In May 2023, Peyton was diagnosed with Wilm’s Tumor, a type of kidney cancer. Before her diagnosis, she experienced abdominal pain for a month, which we initially thought was constipation based on her pediatrician’s assessment. Despite giving her medications to help, her pain persisted and worsened, often leaving her screaming in discomfort at night. Finally, a trip to the ER revealed a large mass and a biopsy confirmed our worst fears.
Since her diagnosis, Peyton has faced numerous challenges. She recently underwent surgery to remove her right kidney and is preparing for additional chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Her energy is limited, and she often feels too tired to play at the park. Following her surgery, she’s been unable to eat, leaving her upset and crying, and even on her better days, her appetite is minimal. As a family, we’ve struggled emotionally and financially—my husband has had to take time off work to ensure Peyton gets the care she needs. It’s heartbreaking to see her so confused and in pain, resisting her medications because she doesn’t understand what’s happening.
Despite everything, Peyton’s sweet personality shines through. She adores watching True and Bartleby and Sofia the First, and she loves playing “Eye Found It.” Her favorite characters include Ana from Frozen, and her happiest memories are trips to Disneyland and Legoland. Even during treatments, she’s been so patient, finding comfort in quiet activities at home.
Peyton’s journey has been incredibly tough, but her resilience and love for the little joys in life inspire us every day.
In November 2022, our daughter Luciana was diagnosed with cancer after experiencing left-side pain and blood in her urine, which led us to the ER. Despite her diagnosis, she has no significant physical limitations.
Her treatment has included chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries. These medical challenges have taken a toll on our family, especially financially. Her brother has developed anxiety due to the stress of her illness, and as a family, we’ve faced numerous emotional and practical struggles.
Our daughter is a vibrant, fun-loving spirit who embraces life with enthusiasm. She has a passion for dance, arts and crafts, and cheering. She also enjoys shopping and experimenting with makeup, always finding ways to express her creativity and joy.
Throughout her journey, she has remained incredibly positive, forming meaningful friendships with others going through similar experiences. She not only receives support but offers it in return, embodying resilience and kindness.
Margo has a very contagious laugh and cracks up over anything silly. She is very girly and loves princesses and anything that sparkles!
Margo was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor on May 5 2023. Before her diagnosis, she was not eating much, had a low grade fever, and was sleeping 15+ hours a day.
This journey has allowed me to see what a fighter my Margo is! It has brought my two daughters closer, while separated them (and me from my older daughter) while we were in the hospital for months.
