Story
Jilka, 17-year-old – UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital
Jilka was diagnosed with Leukemia (AML) Nov. 2021. She underwent 5 months of aggressive chemotherapy which produced positive results. However, one year later when Jilka returned for a follow up, she was met with the unfortunate news that the Leukemia was back with a mutation. Jilka is currently hospitalized undergoing more chemotherapy. Her best option now is qualifying for a clinical trial administering a promising experimental medicine (Xospata) to address the mutation and pursuing a Bone Marrow Transplant (her sister is a perfect match). The family is originally from Mexico and does not qualify for government assistance; Jilka has no health insurance and depends on mercy medicine. As a single parent taking care of Jilka and her two younger siblings, mom is unable to work. Financial assistance is greatly needed.
Needs
The family needs help with food and gas for transportation. Mom commutes 1 hour and 45 minutes each way to and from the hospital daily in order to care for Jilka and her siblings at home.
