Sophia The Brave

Sophia the Brave is a beautiful, young warrior who was diagnosed with High risk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia at the age of 4 (January 2013).  The beginning of her battle was really tough for her and our family.  Sophia was hospitalized for many weeks due to complications including a port site infection which left her with an open wound on her chest that had her attached to wound vac for a couple of weeks.  This kept her apart from her 2 sisters, Tatiana and Liliana. Having Sophia back made it feel like a home again. She's had several hospital stays since, which always makes it hard having our family apart.

Sophia has missed out on a lot of normal day activities such as school, ballet classes, playing in the park, due to her low counts.  She has grown up faster than any child her age but has dealt with this battle with such bravery and understanding.  Since Sophia was home from school, she helped out when her brother, Lucas, was born (May 2013).  She assisted with the folding of his clothes and entertained him during the day.  Lucas really helped Sophia stay strong and not feel lonely while her sisters were in school.  She still to this day wants him to accompany her to her doctor visits.

My husband stopped working in order to become Sophia's primary caregiver.  We were down to one income and even a few months without income due my maternal leave. But our priority was Sophia’s well-being along with our other children.  She is now six years old and continues with treatment which consists of intravenous and oral chemotherapy.  She is in the maintenance phase of treatment and has returned to school and dance class.  Sophia has taken ballet class since the age of 3 but has been a dancer since she could walk. She has a natural ability to capture one’s attention with her dance moves and beautiful smile.  She has taught our family not to give up and appreciate life! 

We are truly grateful for all the help!

The Bahena Family