#RallyKid Gabriel's Fundraiser
Join us in supporting the Rally Foundation, where every donation fuels groundbreaking research and vital support programs for children battling cancer and their families. Your generosity is a lifeline, bringing us closer to a world where childhood cancer is no longer a threat.
Gabriel's Story
Gabriel was born on February 26, 2010, weighing 6 lbs 15 oz. He arrived 3 weeks early but was completely healthy, never experiencing a cold or any illness.
At his 6-month check-up, Dr. Woodhams noted that while Gabriel was 98th percentile in weight and height, his head size was off the charts. She wasn’t concerned due to Gabriel being a large baby but recommended an ultrasound to be sure.
I called CHOA Scottish Rite to schedule the ultrasound but received no callback. My husband Gilberto and I decided not to worry, thinking Gabriel’s head size was just due to his large stature.
However, after another call, Scottish Rite scheduled an appointment for September 20, 2010.
At the appointment, the ultrasound tech took several pictures, repeatedly requesting more. Finally, they informed us that Gabriel’s brain ventricles were unusually large, and he might need a shunt. We were sent to the emergency room, where neurologist Dr. Riesner ordered an MRI. The MRI revealed two masses on Gabriel’s brain. Dr. Riesner, unsure of the exact nature of the masses, planned a biopsy for the next morning and rescheduled his appointments to prioritize Gabriel.
On September 29, 2010, Gabriel was diagnosed with ATRT (Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor) and given an 11% chance of survival with treatment. His treatment plan included 52 weeks of chemotherapy and 6 weeks of proton therapy radiation, starting in October 2010.
Despite the aggressive treatment, an MRI in September 2011 showed the return of two brain masses, possible spinal masses, and one on his kidney.
We decided to continue with chemotherapy to slow the tumor’s progression and minimize side effects for Gabriel.
Sadly, Gabriel passed away on January 27, 2012, just a month shy of his 2nd birthday.
By buying a shirt, you are directly supporting childhood cancer research through the Rally Foundation.
Your purchase will contribute to the ongoing efforts to develop better treatments with fewer long-term side effects, and ultimately, find cures for young patients like Nick. Stand with us in this critical cause and help bring hope to children and families battling cancer.