In November 2022, the Johnson family’s world was turned upside down when six-year-old Luciana, affectionately known as Luci, complained about a tummy ache: “Mommy, my belly really hurts.”
After a trip to the Emergency Room and a series of tests, the Johnsons received the devastating diagnosis—Luci had Wilms Tumor, a rare form of kidney cancer. Luciana was admitted to Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at Hackensack University Medical Center, where her battle against cancer began.
“It felt like we were living in a nightmare,” Lisa, Luci’s mother recalls. “But the moment we stepped into the hospital, we were embraced by a warmth and kindness that gave us hope.”
The care team at the Children’s Hospital, led by her oncologist, Katharine Offer, M.D., became an extended family for Luci and her loved ones.
“Everyone was so amazing, from Dr. Offer to the social worker to all the nurses. I can’t begin to say enough,” Lisa shared. “They weren’t just treating a patient; they were caring for our little girl.”
Luci underwent surgery to remove her tumor and one of her kidneys, and shortly after, she began aggressive chemotherapy treatments. By April 2023, she had completed her treatment and triumphantly rang the bell to celebrate her hard-fought victory, thereby placing her in the maintenance stage in the battle.
Sadly, the celebration was short-lived. Just a few short months after her triumph over cancer, Luci faced a devastating relapse. The cancer had returned.
“It’s heartbreaking when you think you’re past the worst, and then you hear that it’s back, and it’s spread…it’s just not fair,” Lisa said. But this time around, something was different. Luci’s spirit, though tested, was far from broken.
“The second time around she tackled cancer with a smile on her face,” her mother said, marveling at her daughter’s strength. “After treatments, she would say, ‘That wasn’t that bad’.”
Luci found a special connection with Laura, a child life specialist at the hospital. Laura became more than just a caregiver; she became a trusted friend, a “safe person” in Luci’s eyes.
“Sometimes it felt like Laura was Luci’s personal assistant, always there to support her in every way possible,” said Lisa. “But it wasn’t just Luci—Laura did so much for our family. On days when I felt like I couldn’t go on, she’d tell me, ‘Take a breath. Go outside. I’ve got this.’ We couldn’t have made it through without her.”
Another special team member that helped Luciana on her journey throughout this all was her nurse, Steph. Luciana referred to her as someone who was her safe place. “She was the best nurse and would always comfort and care for me,” said Luci.
When you ask Luci what she wants to be when she grows up, her answer is clear and heartfelt: “A child life specialist or a nurse, just like the ones who helped me.” Lisa smiles as she hears this, knowing that the care her daughter received has left an indelible mark on Luci’s heart.
Luci is now in remission and entering the third grade-ready to cheer on the Wildcats as a proud member of the cheerleading squad.
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