#rubystrong

Ruby Streefland, my beautiful 12-year-old niece, has been diagnosed with Osteosarcoma, a childhood bone cancer.  During surgery on September 18, the surgeon discovered that the tumor in her humerus bone was too large to remove. He recommended that chemo begin immediately to shrink the tumor before surgery can be considered again. 

Ruby is a seventh grader at St. Louis Park Middle School.  Her parents are Tina and Jesse Streefland, and Ruby has three brothers who are 15, 13 and 9.  Ruby is a star basketball and softball player. 

Ruby needs to undergo chemo beginning immediately and for up to 12 months.  It means her mom Tina needs to take a leave of absence from work.  COVID is adding many extra challenges to the Streefland’s situation because they need to eliminate any possible COVID exposure for Ruby.  Many people have already asked how they can help. 

Today, we are starting a Go Fund Me campaign and are seeking the generosity of friends, family and strangers to support Ruby’s and her family’s journey at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital.  We anticipate in the year ahead alone, that $50,000 is needed (beyond insurance) to help this family through a very rough time.  If you can contribute to help dear Ruby and her family, we all will be touched beyond words.  Thank you, Angela Lutz, Ruby’s aunt .