Meet Keaton’s Kiddo Nathan

Nathan’s journey began in June 2023 when his family received the devastating news that he had been diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, a form of brain cancer. It started with severe headaches and vomiting, which quickly led to brain surgery, followed by radiation and chemotherapy that lasted nearly a year. It was an incredibly tough season, but also one filled with unexpected blessings and miracles.

A Heart Full of Kindness

Through it all, Nathan has shown remarkable strength. He stays positive, always quick to share kindness and love with others. One of his favorite things is buying toys for other children in the hospital – often wanting to use his own money to do so.

During this difficult time, Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance was honored to walk alongside Nathan and his family. From the moment of diagnosis, Keaton’s provided comfort and hope through Family Navigator check-ins, financial assistance, and personalized Hope Chest care packages to help lift Nathan’s spirits during treatment. His family shared how much it meant to know they were not alone, supported by a community that truly cared.

“Thank you for all the love. You all have been so supportive & amazing to us. I know you’re invested in his journey, too. We appreciate you & all of you at Keaton’s Alliance. We couldn’t do this journey without you.” – Mandy, Nathan’s Caregiver

In August 2024, Nathan reached a huge milestone when he was declared cancer-free and proudly rang the bell of completion. His family was overjoyed.

 

Facing A Setback with Courage

Sadly, in January 2025, their world was shaken again when they learned that his cancer had returned. As his parents met with doctors to explore treatment options, Nathan’s spirit never wavered. With unwavering determination, he said, “I beat it before, I can do it again.”

Nathan and his family now travel back and forth to UCSF every few weeks as he undergoes treatment through a clinical trial. His most recent MRI brought hopeful news -the two tumors were very small and almost undetectable. His treatment is set to finish in December 2025, and his family is praying with all their hearts that he will once again be cancer free.

Inspiring Strength

Despite everything he has endured, Nathan continues to radiate positivity, courage, and resilience. His bravery inspires those around him every single day. His family is deeply grateful for him and cherishes each precious day they are given together. Keaton’s is honored to be part of his journey, helping his family face each step with strength, hope, and love.

Meet Keaton’s Kiddo Milagros

When Milagros was just 5 years old, her family’s life changed forever. In August of 2023, she was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), the most common type of childhood cancer. 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.

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Meet Keaton’s Kiddo Emily

In honor of Brain Cancer Awareness Month, we’d like to introduce you to Keaton’s Kiddo Emily, a remarkable young fighter who has been part of our Keaton’s Child Cancer Alliance family since 2018. “Our journey began in Aug 2018, Emily our 8-year-old was waking up everyday with headaches and throwing up in the morning. After a CT Scan, we were told a MRI was needed as they saw a mass in her brain. Worse fear ever is hearing they found a mass, and you would need to be admitted….

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Honoring Joy on National Down Syndrome Day

Today, on National Down Syndrome Day, we recognize that children with Down Syndrome are 10 to 20 times more likely to develop leukemia. This unique connection between childhood cancer and Down Syndrome—a reality for many families, including our beloved Keaton’s Kiddo, Joy.

While the focus is understandably on the child battling cancer, siblings face their own emotional challenges. They may experience feelings of worry, fear, confusion, or even guilt, and it’s important to acknowledge their role and provide support for them as well.

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