Letter from Hospital Social Worker: To Whom It May Concern:
Nearly a year later, it was discovered that the cancer had returned. The imaging revealed new lung masses. The treatments were hard on his body. He began having problems with his heart and needed ICU care to save him. In summer of 2024, Nathaniel was enrolled in hospice. While comfort and quality of life were very important, his mom knew that he still had a lot to give. His chemotherapy journey continued but he was able to spend more time at home with mom and the focus was still to get Nate better.
Now, in what appears to be a series of beautiful miracles, Nathaniel is still with us. Nate takes most of the credit, but his mom’s faith and dedication are right up there too. She has never left his side and has been his #1 supporter. She fought for him even when her back was against the wall and her hard work was paying off. Mom shared that, if all continues well, Nathaniel might be eligible for lung surgery soon.
This has all come with its sacrifices. This has been over a two-year endeavor, and it has been so hard for her to maneuver through this as a single parent. This family needs help with covering rent, transportation costs, food, and basic necessities. Any drop in the bucket to help this family will go a long way and the gratitude will be endless.
Tiffany Gallart, MSW, RCSWIPediatric Social Worker
Plea from Mother: Nathaniel was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma with lung metastasis as of June 2022. He has received 29 chemotherapies, bilateral lung surgery and had his left leg amputated. We fought hard and were 14 months Cancer free.
As of June 18, 2024, we had to rush him to the ER because he was coughing up blood and in extreme pain. They found two large tumors on each lung and cancer on his amputated leg. One of the tumors was 9.6 cm and is now 4.2. They stated previously, he couldn’t have surgery. Now we are looking at surgery late February.
This has been an incredibly difficult fight, but Nathaniel continues to face it with strength and courage. As a single, disabled mom, I’ve faced significant challenges with limited income. My savings were recently depleted due to costly car repairs, including a transmission replacement.
Anything you can contribute at this time would be deeply appreciated. I want to make some of Nathaniel’s wishes come true before his surgery to give him moments of joy and hope during this tough journey.
Thank you, Suzette
