A Story of Courage, Resilience, and Hope
When Milagros was just 5 years old, her family’s life changed forever. In August of 2023, she was diagnosed with Leucemia linfoblástica aguda (LLA), the most common type of childhood cancer.
The road to diagnosis was confusing and frightening. At first, doctors thought Milagros simply had low iron levels. She was given medication to raise her iron, but at her follow-up appointment, her levels had dropped even further. Soon after, Milagros began experiencing fever, stomach pain, and fatigue, signs that something more serious was wrong. More tests revealed the devastating truth: she had leukemia.
“When the doctors told me Milagros had leukemia, it felt like the worst day of my life,” her mother recalls. “I felt like I was going to die. You hear that word and think only the worst.”
But alongside the fear came ESPERAR. Doctors assured her that there was a treatment plan, and they quickly started Milagros on medication. To everyone’s relief, her body responded well to treatment, and she’s been on the same medication ever since.
For Milagros’ family, the diagnosis came at an especially difficult time. They had recently moved to the U.S. from Mexico, still adjusting to a new language, navigating housing challenges, and finding their footing in a new community. Suddenly, they were thrust into the overwhelming world of childhood cancer, balancing medical treatments, hospital stays, and the emotional toll of an unexpected diagnosis.
The journey has not been easy. Early on, Milagros and her mom spent six straight months in the hospital, separated from her dad and siblings. Since then, she has endured multiple hospital stays ranging from two months to just a few weeks. Now, two years later, Milagros has entered the maintenance phase of treatment, a huge milestone in her fight against cancer.
A Community of Care Through Keaton’s
Throughout this journey, Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance has walked hand-in-hand with Milagros and her family, bringing hope and comfort during their most difficult moments. With the guidance of their bilingual Family Navigator, Debbie, they have been supported in their native language to better understand the complex healthcare system, access vital community resources, and apply for Social Security benefits that helped ease financial burdens.
Keaton’s also provided practical care – from arranging transportation to treatment, to supplying food, clothing, and other essentials – so the family could focus fully on Milagros’ healing. During the holidays, they were lovingly supported through Keaton’s Holiday Adopt-A-Family program, bringing joy and relief when it was needed most.
“You all have been like Angels sent from above to help support our family.” – Teresa, Milagros’ Mom
This wraparound support not only carried them through the toughest days of treatment but also helped the family find their footing in a new country. With less worry about basic needs and greater access to resources, Milagros’ parents have been able to focus on caring for their children, strengthening their family, and beginning to establish themselves as part of the community they now call home.
“We are so grateful for the incredible support our family has received. It means the world to us. I initially felt shy about asking for help, but Debbie made me feel completely comfortable and safe. She consistently goes above and beyond, and I couldn’t be more grateful for everything she does to advocate for our family.”
Celebrating Milestones
Today, Milagros is a joyful, energetic 7-year-old who recently celebrated her birthday – a milestone her family cherishes deeply after all they’ve been through. Her laughter, bravery, and bright spirit shine as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there can still be light, hope, and healing.
