Our lil’ hero and best bud Nate can use your thoughts, prayers and support. On 12-7-22 we discovered Nate has a tumor on his left kidney, adrenal gland, and is wrapped around his aorta. Shortly after the biopsy we learned it is stage 4 neuroblastoma that has spread to his bone marrow. This is an absolute gut punch to our family after we were figuring out how to cope with the misdiagnosis of systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis since November. 

 

Words cannot describe how our family is feeling right now. Nate will get through this. Nate is a strong 6 year old. Nate is also the light of our lives and we have to be strong with him throughout these next several months. Alex, his 11 year old brother, will encounter challenges himself throughout this process that may require support. 

 

The treatment plan is an aggressive approach that includes several induction chemotherapy treatments, stem cell harvesting, surgery to remove the tumor, a bone marrow transplant, targeted radiation, immunotherapy, etc. Nate’s doctors and inpatient stays are located in Richmond, VA about 1.5 hours away from our home in Chesapeake, VA so we do a ton of driving. 

 

There isn’t a child in this world that deserves to go through this. If you find it in your heart to help Nate and our family through this journey, we can assure you all funds will be used appropriately for expenses such as: 

 -Medical Bills not covered by insurance 

 -Comfort items for Nate while going through inpatient treatment 

 -11 year old brother, Alex - it is so important to keep siblings in mind 

 -Food and gas for traveling to Richmond frequently 

 -Pediatric transport chair 

 -Hotel room for mom or dad when charity organization rooms aren’t available 

 -Fun entertainment for Nate when he is home and feeling good in between chemo rounds 

 -Counseling sessions 

 -Certain portions of Nate’s plan will require extended hospital admissions upwards of 45 days -Both parents are taking time off work to be there for our warrior and to provide comfort to our family 

 

We want to thank everyone for all of the love and support we have already received. It has truly been amazing. Nate has so many people lifting him up and praying for him. 

 If interested, PLEASE JOIN #MIGHTYNATE on Facebook to follow along with Nate’s journey!