Help Haley Win Her Second Battle With Cancer

Over 15 years ago, my sister Haley was diagnosed with a brain tumor. To say that we were devastated would be an understatement - how could my sweet, precocious little sister be fighting for her life at age three?  Thankfully our community rallied and supported us. After a lengthy treatment process, a new diagnosis, and the best care in the world at Stanford Children's Hospital, Haley's tumor stabilized and she spent nearly 13 years in remission.


Very recently, we have learned that Haley's tumor has begun to grow again and she is no longer in remission. Haley spent three weeks at Stanford Children's Hospital in March where she underwent multiple high stakes procedures and operations, including a craniotomy to relieve pressure and obtain a tissue sample for a diagnosis.  We are grateful to know that the tumor remains in roughly the same location, and in fact, it is the same tumor type from her childhood. Haley's tumor has always been inoperable, and that is still the case. However, new treatment options exist now that were not available 15 years ago. Now Haley is taking an oral chemotherapy/targeted gene therapy medication from home which we hope will once again stabilize or even shrink her tumor. 


To say that my sister is "a fighter" is terribly cliche, but it also couldn't be truer. Haley should be finishing her junior year at UNR right now, working on campus, and spending time with her friends. Instead, here she is battling cancer once again - something no person should have to go through in a lifetime, yet it is her second round at the young age of 20 years. But not surprisingly (if you know Haley) she is facing her current situation with optimism, positivity, and cheerfulness that almost defies comprehension. 

I am humbly asking for any support you are willing to give to help Haley beat cancer once more. Just as she is facing this disease for a second time, it is my hope that our community can come through for Haley a second time. Any funds raised here will be used to offset Haley's new medical costs, including her recent extended hospital stay, the cost of her chemotherapy treatment, and rehabilitation - as well as any future medical expenses to come. I know that Haley has a bright future in store for her; please help be part of that. 

Sincerely,
Amanda "Kiki" Laca