Valentina is a bright, joyful 5-year-old who is a good friend to many of our children and a part of the Lincoln School family. Recently, she was diagnosed with Stage III Wilms Tumor, a rare pediatric kidney cancer. Over the last 2 weeks, Valentina has undergone major surgery and now faces several months of intensive treatment, including radiation and chemotherapy expected to last 5 to 8 months.

While Valentina's long term prognosis is good, this is a life changing diagnosis and it has been a shock to her and her family. They are receiving the best care and support and still, the amount of information and uncertainty that they are having to learn and live with is unfathomable. The next year is going to be long and unpredictable. There will be time away from school and friends for Valentina and time away from work for her family. We are often unaware of the hidden costs ("financial toxicity") that come with a diagnosis like this. Even for families who are financially stable with good health insurance, the impact of time off work, travel to and from the hospital, medical expenses not covered by insurance, additional childcare and the emotional toll of it all adds up.

Valentina’s and her family are part of our Lincoln School community and we want to support them and keep showing up for them. Whether it’s helping cover medical bills, meals, gas, or simply giving them the breathing room to focus on Valentina without worrying about work or the next expense, your support means everything.

No family should have to carry this alone. Let’s surround them with love, strength, and whatever help we can give.