MAITLAND, Fla. — A Central Florida nonprofit is helping a Texas baby celebrate her first birthday with loved ones while undergoing treatment for leukemia.
Zara, who lives in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, turns 1 on Oct. 24. She was diagnosed with high-risk leukemia at 5 months old and has undergone chemotherapy and CAR T-cell therapy, according to Immunocompromised Association.
The Maitland-based organization says her weakened immune system prevents her from attending a traditional birthday gathering. Its free Celebration Online program will help her family mark the milestone virtually.
A milestone after months of treatment
Zara has spent much of her first year receiving intensive medical care, including lengthy hospital stays, according to the organization.
Her family recently reported encouraging test results indicating that her leukemia is responding to treatment.
Despite those challenges, her family describes her as a happy baby who loves music, dancing and watching Ms. Rachel.
“This experience has changed our family forever, but it has also shown us an incredible amount of love and generosity,” her mother, Marian, said in the announcement.
Connecting families online
Celebration Online hosts gatherings through Zoom, allowing participants to join from home or a hospital room.
Depending on participants’ needs, celebrations may include invitations, interactive games, entertainment and a cake delivered to the guest of honor, according to the nonprofit.
The program serves immunocompromised children and adults regardless of where they live. Celebrations can recognize birthdays, transplant anniversaries and other milestones, or provide an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones.
Founded in 2019, Immunocompromised Association also offers support groups, educational resources and social activities aimed at reducing isolation among people whose immune systems are weakened by illness or treatment.
How to arrange a celebration
Individuals and families can visit the Celebration Online website or email events@thinkofmeplease.org for information about arranging a free virtual gathering.
The organization has also shared a longer account of Zara’s story.
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