Katie and Carlos are more than friends to me — they are family. Today, they are facing the
kind of news no parent should ever have to hear. Their sweet 2½-year-old son, Jacob, has
been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma, and their
world has been turned upside down.
Just weeks ago, Jacob was the same silly, energetic, joy-filled little boy everyone knows and
loves. What first seemed like recurring ear infections and common viruses slowly became
something more. He grew tired, lost his appetite, and then his left eye began drifting.
Doctors initially believed it was virus-related and nothing unusual for a young child. But
when Jacob woke up one morning with his eyelid drooping and swollen shut, Katie knew
something wasn’t right.
At the Children’s Emergency Department, an MRI revealed the unimaginable — a tumor
pressing against his ear, optic nerve, and throat. In a matter of days, Jacob has already
endured bloodwork, biopsies, and a PET scan. Next week he will have a port placed and will
begin the long road of treatment ahead.
The days to come will be filled with hospital visits, treatments, uncertainty, and courage no
toddler should ever have to summon. Katie and Carlos will be taking significant time away
from work to be by Jacob’s side every step of the way, while also caring for their two other
beautiful children, Joey (5) and baby Alessandra (4½ months).
As medical bills, travel expenses, and everyday household costs quickly add up, we are
asking for support to help ease the financial burden this family now carries. Any donation,
no matter the amount, will allow Katie and Carlos to focus on what matters most — Jacob’s
healing and the well-being of their children.
If you’re unable to give financially, we humbly ask for your prayers, your love, and your
willingness to share this fundraiser. Every act of kindness — whether a donation, a prayer,
or a simple share — means more than words can express to the Barrera and Bonin families.
We may not understand why this is happening, but we hold tightly to faith and the promise
God gives us in Romans 8