Kiona's fight

This is my 12-year-old cousin Kiona Staton.  On Nov 7th she was diagnosed with a tumor on her brain stem. Surgery on Nov 13th removed only a portion of the tumor.  Biopsy results returned on Nov 27th identifying the tumor as a glioblastoma, rare cancer in children that is life-threatening.  Limited research and treatment options mean Kiona has approx. a 1 in 10 chance of beating this. Her parents, my cousin Susan and husband Terrence, are fighting desperately to do everything imaginable to help Kiona fight and win this battle. Kiona’s 10-day hospitalization in November placed an unexpected financial burden on the family as neither parent was able to work for nearly 18 days. The financial burden has been compounded as Kiona’s mom, Susan has been unable to work since Nov 7th. 

Kiona is home; however, due to the amount of care, she currently requires it is uncertain when Susan will be able to return work. In addition to the significantly reduced income, other expenses including a special nutritional diet and supplements for Kiona, costs of travel to get Kiona to multiple appts each day, and the fact that both Kiona’s birthday and Christmas are just days away have substantially increased the financial burden for this family. 

I started this GoFundMe because my cousin Susan and her family need our help.  I would like Kiona’s parents to be able to focus on her treatment and care. I am hoping we can help this family by relieving some of the financial burdens they are facing so they can do just that – focus on helping Kiona beat this.  

Any donation is greatly appreciated and if you can’t help, we do understand.  We would also appreciate it if you will keep Kiona and her family in your prayers, and please share this page with others. 

Thank you for reading Kiona’s story and remember, any contribution helps!

(Thank you and God Bless).

#BeatTheOdds!  #KionaYouGotThis!!