Support Isabella's Brave Fight Against Leukemia

Last week, I took Isabella, my 11-year-old daughter, to the doctor after her dad had noticed some strange and unexplained bruises for about a week. Isabella didn't show any other symptoms, but didn't remember hitting anything or falling. The nurse ordered some labs, and we thought it was some kind of anemia.

Her pediatrician called the next day saying that her red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets were really low, and that meant that her bone marrow was malfunctioning. She also said that in many cases this was a sign of leukemia.

Her doctor asked us to go to Seattle Children's Hospital because it was an emergency. We got everyone ready and drove to Seattle wishing to get an answer. Over here they did more labs that confirmed the deficiency, and after having a bone marrow biopsy two days ago, Isabella was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. When we got here, there were no leukemia cells in her bloodstream, but now she has some. A lumbar puncture also showed that she had one leukemia cell in her spine.

She started chemotherapy yesterday as part of the induction phase, which might last five weeks. After that, she will need more treatment for 5-7 months, and we would need some follow-up for a total of 2.5 years.

Many friends are helping take care of my other daughter and my dog. I am not working right now because I can't leave Isabella alone. My job has been amazing with that. However, there are expenses here and there generated by a long stay in a hospital, especially meals. I don't have any specific amount in mind, and anything helps.

I am positive but scared about the situation. Isabella has been amazing since she learned about her diagnosis. I was crying and she asked the doctor, "Well... when do I start the treatment?" Isabella said that I shouldn't cry because this is just going to make her stronger.

Thank you all for your support during this difficult time.

Ale, aka brave and amazing Isabella's mom