Eliseo's cancer journey has been quite a rollercoaster ride, one that I never could have anticipated. It all started back in September 2022 when Eliseo began complaining about knee pains. He was so excited about joining the sixth-grade band and learning to play the clarinet. We thought it was just growing pains at first, but soon, it became evident that something more serious was going on.
To add to the mix, we were already dealing with a lingering cough from a recent bout of COVID-19. Little did we know that this was just the beginning of an incredible journey. On February 15, 2022, our world was turned upside down when we got the heart-wrenching news: Eliseo had been diagnosed with B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL).
The diagnosis hit us like a ton of bricks, and we found ourselves in a whirlwind of emotions and challenges. From insurance headaches to medical emergencies, we faced obstacles that really tested our mettle. Eliseo even had an unexpected anaphylactic shock during chemotherapy, which led to some changes in his treatment plan. The high-risk phases of treatment brought intense chemotherapy sessions and long stints in the hospital. Through it all, Eliseo's bravery shone brightly.
Amidst all the ups and downs, there were moments of triumph. Achieving remission was a glimmer of hope, a sign that maybe, just maybe, we could see a cancer-free future for our son. Our family grew even closer, and the incredible support from our community was a ray of sunshine during the darkest times. Eliseo's return to school and his determination to dive back into his hobbies like playing the clarinet and gaming were inspiring for all of us.
Today, Eliseo is in the maintenance phase of his treatment. It involves a carefully managed routine of medications, including daily and weekly oral chemotherapy. The goal is to keep remission intact and prevent leukemia from making an unwelcome return. Our journey isn't over yet, but we're holding on to hope.
As a mom, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support of the St. Baldrick's Foundation and kind-hearted folks like you. Your contributions of time, talent, and resources are not only helping my son but also over 300,000 kids worldwide who will face a cancer diagnosis this year. Together, we're making strides in pediatric cancer research, offering every child battling cancer a better chance for a cure.
Thank you for joining us on Eliseo's journey. Your dedication and support are a testament to the incredible power of hope and the potential of a brighter future for all children fighting cancer.
