Leonidas

Story

Leonidas, 14-year-old – Broward Health

Leonidas was diagnosed with T‑Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in September 2025. The diagnosis came fast and without warning, turning the family’s world upside down. He has been in treatment five months undergoing chemotherapy several times each week. His mother must frequently take time off working as a server at a local restaurant to care for Leonidas medical needs. Although her employer is understanding, the financial strain on the family of (5) has become significant.

Needs

The family needs help with basic living expenses with rent being a priority ($1,500/month). Leonidas was also recently diagnosed with Diabetes, making grocery bills significantly higher. Mom is a single mother and sole provider for 3 children and a grandson (19 y/o daughter has a newborn baby).

Letter from Social Worker:

To Whom It May Concern:
This letter is on behalf of Leonidas, a 14-year-old Pediatric Oncology Patient at Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital at Broward Health Medical Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
In September, his family’s world shifted dramatically after he was diagnosed with T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. His treatment has required extensive hospitalizations and intensive chemotherapy, at times requiring chemotherapy multiple times a week.
Leonidas’ mother is a single mother and the sole provider for him, his two siblings, and his newborn nephew. Prior to his diagnosis, his mother worked tirelessly to provide for her family, but the demands of his rigorous treatment schedule have required her to significantly reduce her working hours. The emotional and financial strain of supporting a critically ill child while also caring for the entire household has been overwhelming. Assistance during this time would offer meaningful relief, helping the family maintain stability while ensuring Leonidas continues to receive the care, presence, and support essential for healing. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
Victoria Arcay, MSW
Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Social Worker

View Original letter

Plea from Mother:

Dear Jessica June Children’s Cancer Foundation,
I am writing to you with deep respect and hope. I am a single mother of three children and a grandmother to a three-month-old baby. My youngest son, who is 14 years old, was diagnosed with leukemia on August 25. Since that time, I have had to stop working because he spent two months hospitalized, and I needed to dedicate myself fully to his care.
Although he is now at home, we must go to the hospital every week for his chemotherapy treatments. Each time he has a session, I must be absent from work. My employer has been understanding by granting me permission to accompany him, but this situation has affected us in every way, emotionally, physically, and financially. As the sole provider for my family, the burden has been overwhelming.
I respectfully request assistance from your foundation and ask to be considered for any of the programs you have available to support families in situations like mine. Your help would make a significant difference in our lives during this very difficult time.
Thank you in advance for your attention and compassion. I am willing to provide any additional information you may require.

Blessings, Miriam

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