Estefani is my 16-year-old niece, and she means the world to our family. Throughout October, she was feeling down and the doctors thought it was just strep. On her 16th birthday in November, she could barely get up to celebrate, and about a week ago, she became so weak she couldn't walk. We rushed her to the ER, and after days of tests, we received the devastating news: Estefani has AML leukemia.

Her parents are doing everything they can, but the challenges keep piling up. Just before she got sick, her dad was ordered to voluntarily leave the country to adjust his status, and now we are fighting to keep him here through a compassionate stay. The legal fees, attorney costs, and travel expenses are overwhelming. Her mom wants nothing more than to be by Estefani’s side 24/7, but with three younger siblings and work, it’s nearly impossible without help. I have been staying with Estefani when her parents can’t, but she is scared and needs her family close.

My niece is like a daughter to me. I would give anything to take this illness from her, but I can’t. She messaged me after her diagnosis, saying, 'It seems like everything is always changing for the worst lately. When can you come, tia? I’m scared and everyone keeps saying it will be alright, everything is fine, and I know it’s not fine.' All I could tell her is that it may not be okay now, but I will be there the whole way and this will get better. We are asking for your support—whether it’s a donation, a prayer, or simply sharing our story. Every bit of kindness helps us make this journey a little easier for Estefani and her family.

We will use funds for extra transportation costs basic family necessities and to pay for legal fees in order to keep her dad with her through her treatment.