Nine-year-old Ruby is an adventurous, creative, and lively spirit. However, you would never know this spunky nine-year-old girl had been diagnosed with a rare blood cancer, acute myeloid leukemia. During the fall of 2023, Ruby was experiencing several bouts of what doctors thought was the stomach bug or flu. It wasn't until a simple blood test that Ruby and her family received life-altering news.
The diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia led to four difficult rounds of chemotherapy in complete isolation. Despite these challenging circumstances, “Ruby's bravery shone through every day in the hospital,” recalls her mother, Jessica. “She actively engaged in her treatment, researching leukemia to understand her condition. Her care team empowered her to ask questions, and ASK Childhood Foundation provided the answers and support she needed.”
From the early days of her diagnosis, ASK became an integral part of Ruby's journey. Determined to start fourth grade on time with her friends, ASK Education Navigator Jon Longenecker worked tirelessly to ensure she could continue her studies in the hospital.
Jon is one of six Navigators stationed at each of Virginia's five pediatric cancer treatment centers. These dedicated professionals bridge the gap between hospital inpatient stays and patients' schools, helping them stay on grade level and receive the necessary accommodations to succeed.
ASK's support extended beyond education. Financial assistance allowed Ruby's parents to focus on her treatment, while special programs like Summer Camp offered her a chance to connect with other kids going through similar experiences. "She created a spreadsheet to make sure she didn't miss a single activity," Jessica laughs. "ASK Night at the Diamond and art classes at the Art Factory are two of her favorites."
Today, Ruby is a cancer survivor, and ASK remains committed to supporting her throughout her young adulthood.
“It's incredible to see her back to doing what she loves, like archery and tae kwon do, We couldn't have faced this challenge without ASK. They were our safety net, providing strength and support during the most difficult times. While we focused on our child's life, ASK took care of our everyday needs. We are eternally grateful for their unwavering support.” - Jessica, ASK Kid Ruby's Mom
A silver lining for this family has been the opportunity to strengthen their bond during these challenging times. “[With Ruby] as an only child in a tight-knit family, it’s been amazing to find that we could get even closer together. Our little family unit of three has been able to thrive and strengthen our bond during these long hospital stays. The support we receive has made it possible to stay at Ruby’s side during the most unimaginable worst time,” says Jessica.