Inspirational Stories

Kali’a, at just four months old, was diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a high-risk condition requiring a bone marrow transplant. What began as a routine four-month check-up quickly turned into our worst nightmare. Despite having plans for a day at Disneyland, a decision to keep the appointment proved fateful as the doctor discovered her enlarged spleen. Tests followed, but we managed to enjoy a memorable day at Disneyland where Kali’a's joy and smiles were infectious. The next day, a life-altering call shattered our world. I can still feel the weight of that moment, the anguish, and disbelief that washed over me. The doctor's words cut deep as he urged us to pack a bag and head straight to Rady's. Despite our confusion, as Kaiser patients, we followed his advice. The revelation of the likely leukemia diagnosis left me shattered, holding my seemingly healthy and happy baby. With a heavy heart, we rushed to Rady's where they were prepared for our arrival. Immediate tests confirmed her white blood cell count at 400,000 ― far above the normal range of 5,000-19,000. Our journey through the ICU began, filled with more tests and uncertainty than we ever imagined. She had to be intubated for a blood transfusion. I spent seven hours watching as a nurse drew her blood every 15 minutes while she received the infusion of new blood. Despite her outward appearance of health and happiness, the reality inside her was far from it. I was filled with confusion as she showed no symptoms of the serious condition she was battling. She made remarkable progress during her 11-day stay in the ICU where she received a broviac placement. Transitioning from the PICU to the hemoc clinic, she began the challenging process of tapering off medications, leading to bouts of irritability and unexplained crying. However, as she commenced chemotherapy, her condition gradually improved. As we embarked on the bone marrow process, a heartwarming discovery unfolded ― our second child, her brother Kain, emerged as a perfect 10/10 match for her. This unexpected blessing brought tears of gratitude, reaffirming our faith in the power of divine intervention. Currently navigating through her fourth cycle, an intense phase, we anticipate her bone marrow transplant scheduled for mid-May to June, pending a smooth progression. We humbly request the sharing of her journey, rooted in our unwavering belief that prayers wield healing powers and miracles transpire through them. We ask for collective prayers to fortify her strength and conquer this insidious disease that no child, or anyone, should ever endure, especially at such a tender age. Our fervent prayers also extend to my husband's ability to remain by our side since her diagnosis despite being the sole provider for our family of five. Gratefully, his employment with the Federal Fire Department of San Diego has granted him the flexibility to support Kali’a through her hospital stays, chemotherapy sessions, and medical appointments, all while ensuring a semblance of normalcy for our other children, Knox (11) and Kain (9), by attending to their schooling and extracurricular activities. For three years, we have held this precious girl in our prayers; she is a true blessing in our lives. We believe that this is her unique journey, one that will ultimately unfold into something truly beautiful. Your assistance in sharing her story is invaluable to us, as we strive for her remission with hope and faith guiding our way.