A Daughter’s Strength, A Father’s Resolve

Mia Spirito, a 13-year-old girl from Monte Chingolo, Argentina, is facing a daunting battle. Diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) a year and four months ago, Mia is undergoing intensive oncological treatment.While the initial stages were promising, her family now faces significant financial challenges too complete the remaining six months of her treatment.

The situation highlights a stark reality for many families worldwide: the immense cost of cancer treatment. In the United States,the financial burden of cancer care is a major concern,with many families facing bankruptcy due to medical bills. Stories like mia’s resonate deeply, underscoring the need for accessible and affordable healthcare.

“1 year and 4 months ago they detected acute lisphoblastic leukemia. The treatment is 2 years and we lack 6 months of the oncological treatment”

Leandro spirito, Mia’s Father

Leandro, Mia’s father, is doing everything he can to support his daughter. He described Mia as “a genius, always positive” and a “Fana de Racing” (a huge Racing club fan). Despite the challenges,Mia continues to pursue her schoolwork,showcasing her resilience and determination.

The Cost of Hope: A Family’s Struggle

Mia’s treatment at the Pedro de Elizalde Children’s Hospital,also known as Casa cuna,initially provided a lifeline. Though, the ongoing costs of therapy and medication have become unsustainable for the Spirito family. Compounding their difficulties, Mia developed a knee infection, chronic osteomyelitis, as a consequence of chemotherapy, requiring an additional six months of medication.

“It has chronic osteomyelitis and has to take medication for 6 more months. We need help to spend these months because I am without working”

Leandro spirito, Mia’s Father

Leandro is currently unemployed and trying to make ends meet by washing cars. The situation is dire, with the family needing approximately $20,000 to $30,000 per day for Mia’s care, depending on her specific needs. This financial strain is a common experience for families battling childhood cancer in the U.S., where even with insurance, out-of-pocket costs can be substantial.

According to the American Cancer Society, the average cost of cancer care can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, creating a significant financial burden for families. This financial toxicity can impact a patient’s quality of life and even their ability to adhere to treatment plans.

The Daily reality: A Life Disrupted

The past several months have been especially challenging. Mia has been largely confined to bed, requiring 24-hour care. Leandro described their daily reality: “We were 2 and a half months hospitalized for yoru knee, you can’t walk 5 months ago. The day to day is in bed with the care being 24 hours with her and praying that no temperature lifted so as not to take her to the hospital.”

This isolation and constant need for care are common experiences for children undergoing cancer treatment and their families. the disruption to normal life, including school, social activities, and work, can take a significant toll on everyone involved.

A Call for Collaboration

The Spirito family is appealing to the public for assistance to help Mia complete her treatment. While the initial stages of treatment were conducted at the Casa Cuna hospital,Mia is now primarily cared for at home,with regular blood tests (hemograms) every 10 days.

Mia herself has bravely taken to social media to share her story and ask for help. “My name is mine, I am 13 years old and I am going through an oncological treatment: they diagnosed me acute lisphoblastic leukemia. I wanted to ask all people if they can definitely help us, give a hand, not only contributing money but also sharing or spreading. I give them very much to all who help us and if they share it is a great help. thank you very much.”

Understanding Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Mia’s diagnosis, acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), is the most common type of childhood cancer. It’s a cancer of the blood and bone marrow that affects the white blood cells. While a diagnosis of ALL can be frightening, significant advancements in treatment have led to improved outcomes.

as st. Jude patients with ALL have a survival rate of 94%, up from just 4% when St. Jude opened its doors in 1962. This remarkable progress is a testament to ongoing research and the dedication of medical professionals.

Though, this success story must be qualified, as the economic and social barriers to adequate treatment can create disparities in the access to the right treatment and medical support. For families in some underprivileged regions the situation can be very difficult.

How to Help

Those who wish to support Mia’s treatment can contribute through a direct transfer to Leandro Spirito’s personal account. Details are provided below:

• ALIAS: lavadero.sitio.mp
• CVU: 0000003100097652800463
• Titular: Leonardo ariel Spirito
• Contact: 11-2781-3192

Every contribution, no matter the size, can make a difference in Mia’s fight against leukemia.