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Castiel is joy personified. He’s bright-eyed, full of giggles, cuddly beyond measure—the kind of baby who reaches out for you and instantly steals your heart. He is the light of his parents’ lives. He is also adored deeply by his big brother, Nicollas—a sweet, gentle 13-year-old on the autism spectrum. Just recently, Mike and Leidiane noticed a bump on Castiel’s head. Then another on his neck. Concerned, they brought him in for an ultrasound. They waited two agonizing days for that appointment. Within an hour of leaving that office came the call that turned their world upside down: “Take him to Children’s Hospital—immediately.” Castiel has been diagnosed with Stage Four High-Risk Neuroblastoma. Dozens of tumors have been found throughout his tiny body—his spine, kidneys, lungs, skull, neck, and bones. He is only a baby, but he is already in the fight of his life. Since his diagnosis, Castiel has endured more than any child should: • His first full five-day round of chemotherapy• A bone marrow extraction• Two blood transfusions• Multiple biopsies He’s only at the beginning of what will be an aggressive and invasive treatment plan: more transfusions, scans, surgeries, radiation, and ongoing chemo lie ahead. His body is already reacting—he’s in pain, with sores in his mouth, fighting through side effects he can’t possibly understand. He’s also teething right now—a cruel reminder of the milestones he should be reaching, of the baby life he should be living. Mike and Leidiane are also doing everything they can to support Nicollas, who thrives with consistency, routine, and close attention. Ensuring he feels safe and cared for during this time is just as essential—and presents an added layer of emotional and logistical challenge as they navigate hospital visits, appointments, and long days away from home. Nicollas and Castiel’s parents are kind, humble, and giving to the core. If you know them, you know this. If you don’t, just know that the love they pour into others is now being poured into their boys—with every ounce of strength they have. We’re raising funds to help cover:
️Extensive medical expenses not covered by insurance
️ Travel, parking, and lodging for hospital visits
️ Meals and daily expenses during extended stays
️Lost income, as both parents must miss work
️ Childcare and support for Nicollas No family is prepared for this. But we believe in the strength of community to carry a family through what no one should face alone. If you can give—please, do. Every dollar counts. If you can’t, please share. And above all, hold this family in your heart and prayers. Castiel is a warrior in footie pajamas. He’s fighting. So we will, too—beside him, for him, and with unshakable hope. Thank you for standing with Castiel.With love and gratitude.
