Childhood Cancer Warrior Spotlight: Juliana

At four years old, Juliana was an energetic, charasmatic, and joyful little girl.  In late 2021, her energy levels tanked, and she complained of leg pain. She experienced on and off fevers for a few weeks. It was “viral.” After we noticed her looking very pale, I scheduled an appointment with her pediatrician thinking she was anemic. On December 30, 2021, our worst fear came true.

Juliana was diagnosed with b-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Juliana was admitted into PICU and received 7 blood transfusions. Treatment at that time was very isolating. It was during Covid. No visitors were allowed, masks were mandatory, only 1 parent allowed in the ER. Juliana dealt with it all like a champ. We are so fortunate that Juliana was given the option to enroll in a clinical trial, one that would later get approval from the FDA to become a standard part of the treatment plan for many ALL B cell pediatric cancer patients. After a long two-and-a-half years, Juliana rang the bell to signify the end of treatment in March of 2024.

2+ years post treatment, Juliana has been enjoying life like a normal kid. She has continued doing what she loves, which is dance. She also enjoys watching The Houston Dash and Rice University’s Women’s soccer team. As a family we have continued to support Texas Children’s Hospital, along with many local childhood cancer organizations, like Sky High for Kids, fighting to find cures and better treatments.