Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone who celebrates

As this year comes to a close, I want to share something deeply personal—honestly, gently, and with gratitude.

This year has been one of the most transformative of my life. It stretched my heart and changed the way I understand life, purpose, and love in ways I never expected.

My mom is currently undergoing treatment for stage 3 stomach cancer. She has completed multiple rounds of chemotherapy and is now facing the hope—and the challenge—of becoming operable for major surgery, followed by an intense and demanding healing journey.

She is one of the strongest women I know.

Years ago, she overcame thyroid cancer. Now, she is facing another fight—with courage, dignity, and resilience.

Beyond her diagnosis, the reality is that she is largely on her own. My father and his family have been absent for most of my life and remain so today. Still, my mom and I proudly carry their last name—standing worldwide in strength, integrity, and resilience.

She is also caring for my grandmother, who has Alzheimer’s, which adds another layer of responsibility and emotional weight.

Two months ago, she had a plane ticket to visit me in January.

After nearly two years apart, we were finally going to be together.

Her diagnosis made that impossible.

I want to be transparent: this life is not effortless, and this year has carried its own hardships for me as well. Supporting my mom—her treatment, her care, and her strength—is where all of my energy and resources go.

My mom is overseas, and I am in a place where my work and studies focus on raising awareness about water safety, reducing drowning, and introducing the healing power of water through aquatic therapy—work that is still widely unknown, yet deeply needed.

As painful as the distance is, this is the way I can support her best. Due to unfortunate travel restrictions I am not yet allow to see and hug her.

From here, I can show up for her mentally, emotionally, and financially—consistently and sustainably. Every step I take forward, every person I help, brings me closer to the woman who made me who I am.

This fundraiser is not something I ever imagined I would create. It is simply the most honest way, because if only one additional prayer we have we are blessed.

If you feel called to support, to share, or simply to keep us in your prayers, I am deeply grateful. Every act of kindness—no matter how small—helps bridge the miles between us.

With gratitude and love,

Niki

love, hope and love.