Nikola’s family stays positive, even on the toughest days of treatment. “To anyone out there, we want you to know that we are stronger than childhood cancer,” says Nikola’s dad, Jorge. “Even on the worst days, we have hope that tomorrow will be better. Each day, we are stronger than the day before, and we are reminded that our focus should be on our family.”
When five-year-old Nikola – Niko, for short – began feeling lethargic and complaining of joint pain, his parents knew something was wrong. After several doctors’ appointments and a simple blood test, Niko was diagnosed with leukemia (B-Cell ALL). The next few days were a total blur, but Jorge shares that the help they received from ASK during that time kept him and his family feeling grounded and supported.
“From the very first days, ASK has been such a blessing,” Jorge remembers. “The emotional support we continue to receive from people who know what we’re going through is invaluable. My wife had to quit work to care for Niko, and ASK was there to provide financial support when we needed it most. And, ASK gives us the opportunity to forget about childhood cancer by planning trips and activities outside of the hospital. We could never express how grateful we are for all of their support.”
Niko’s family also appreciates the connections that ASK has allowed them to make with all of the other families they serve. “We realize how lucky we are to have one another to lean on and stand together,” Jorge continues. “When we connect with other families, we know that It’s not just our family going through this struggle. We are reminded to stay strong.”
Niko is progressing through treatment, which is at least a two-year process. He is still active and loves to play outside with his older sister, Yaredith. “Niko is happy, in spite of his circumstances,” Jorge laughs. “He reminds us every day that we can fight childhood cancer as a family, and we will win. Thank goodness ASK will be fighting in the trenches with us until childhood cancer is gone forever.”
