Milana had been suffering from weakness, sweatiness and a low-grade fever. She visited her pediatrician and the emergency room, but no diagnosis was made.

The day Milana stopped walking and attempted to crawl out of bed, I knew there was something significantly wrong. Bone scans were performed, but she was in so much pain. I insisted a blood test be ordered immediately. The simple blood test showed she had cancer.

When Milana returned from her port-placement surgery, I realized that our life you never be the same. I was full of fear that if the 30-month chemotherapy treatment would fail, I would lose my daughter.

The first 20 days of treatment were crucial. Her appearance and voice changed and the steroid-enhanced therapy made her irritable. I would hold her tight in my arms and tell her how much I love her.

As a single mother, it has been emotionally and financially exhausting. This tough journey has impacted the whole family. My parents even quit their jobs in Moscow, Russia and moved to the USA to help with Milana’s treatment.
The love for my daughter has kept me going for two years now.

I will do everything in my power to provide the best for her. I dream of the cancer free future for our children and families. -Milana’s Mom