Katia's Fight

Hello friends, family, community --- thank you for taking the time to read Katia's story.

 

In January of 2022, Katia had a minor fall on the playground at school. As a precaution, her momma (Cruz) took her to the ER for X-rays to ensure nothing was broken. The doctors did not see any internal damage and advised Cruz to monitor her symptoms at home. Alarmingly, her symptoms worsened --- including high fever, throwing up, and refusal to eat. Another doctor visit, including an ultrasound, found Katia had internal bleeding and two masses in her abdomen. At that time, the masses were believed to be hematomas due to the fall. They continued to treat her symptoms as a result of the hematoma and expected her to recover quickly, but her condition eventually escalated to the unfathomable.

 

After several weeks of continued tests and doctor visits, Katia was diagnosed with Stage 3 Wilms' tumor on May 18, 2022. Wilms' tumor is a rare kidney cancer that primarily affects children. Immediately following her diagnosis, Katia began chemo treatment at MD Anderson in Houston. This beautiful girl will complete 25 chemo treatments, undergo kidney removal surgery in July, followed by more chemo and radiation. It will be a long, tough road.

 

Due to medications and cancer treatment protocols, she will be immunocompromised throughout her treatment and unable to go to her preschool or typical family outings. Her diet must change drastically to integrate more plant-based protein. There will be unexpected costs at every turn -- everything is just extra, and the family is feeling the strain on their dwindling savings. Donated funds will be used for hospital bills, travel to appointments, medications including chemotherapy, radiation, and to support the family in taking necessary time off work.

It's a terrifying experience to hear your child has cancer and not something any parent can ever prepare for. This journey has already proven to be a difficult road full of ups and down, highs and lows, wins and losses. And despite the challenges, Katia's big smile remains bright. If you know Katia, you know she is full of joy --- she loves to dance, laugh, and all things Disney princess. She has a huge heart and adores her baby sister, Kamila. She is strong, resilient, and WILL win this fight.

We’re asking you to become part of Katia's extended care team and help relieve the financial pressure, so her family can focus on Katia surviving cancer. Please donate whatever you can, every penny helps Katia's Fight. If you can’t donate monetarily, (we know things are tough right now) love, prayers, and positive energy are also needed and deeply appreciated. Thank you so much for your help and support.