Just a few weeks ago, our biggest worries were preschool, playgrounds, bedtime stories and getting our princess ready for her recital.

Then everything changed.

Our beautiful 4-year-old daughter, Maya, started vomiting and telling us that “the floor was wobbly.” We never imagined those words would lead to the discovery of a brain tumor.

Maya underwent emergency brain surgery, where doctors were able to remove her tumor. The diagnosis that followed was one no parent is ever prepared to hear: Posterior Fossa Group A (PFA) Ependymoma, a rare pediatric brain tumor.

Today, our family is at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, where Maya is beginning the next stage of her journey with proton radiation therapy and rehabilitation. Every day, we watch a team of incredible doctors, nurses, therapists, researchers, and Child Life specialists dedicate themselves to helping children like Maya heal—not just survive, but have the best possible future.

One of the most extraordinary things about St. Jude is that families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. That means parents can spend every moment focused on helping their child heal instead of worrying about how they’ll afford lifesaving care. We are experiencing that kindness firsthand, and it has lifted an enormous burden from our family during the hardest time of our lives.

None of this is possible without the generosity of people who believe that every child deserves a chance.

Maya is only four years old. She loves to laugh, play, read books, cuddle, and make new friends. Even after brain surgery, she continues to amaze us with her strength, resilience, and beautiful smile. She reminds us every day that courage can come in the smallest person.

If Maya’s story touches your heart, we would be honored if you would help us support the mission that is giving our daughter—and thousands of children like her—hope.

Our goal is to raise $10,000 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Every donation, whether it’s $10, $25, $50, or more, helps ensure that:

• A family never has to choose between paying for treatment or paying their mortgage.
• A child receives world-class care regardless of their family’s financial situation.
• Researchers continue developing better treatments with fewer long-term side effects.
• Families like ours can focus on what matters most—helping their child heal.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing Maya’s story is another incredible way to help. Every share reaches someone new who may be able to make a difference.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with Maya, believing in her, and supporting every child and family walking this journey.

With love and gratitude,
 Maya's familia