Since early March and in response to COVID-19, we have all had to become more vigilant in infection control.
However, frequent hand washing, wiping down surfaces, and maintaining social distancing is not new to Tackle Kids Cancer MVP Maribel and her family. As a child living with cancer, diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of 6, Maribel’s parents need to be even more cautious about every family decision.
“Once the lock-downs started, our entire family had to institute a different level of caution,” explained Maribel’s father, Angel. “Maribel’s diagnosis has been a factor in every decision we have made as family for the past three years. Given the severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to be very careful.”
Maribel is currently being treated at Hackensack Meridian Health Children’s Cancer Institute, and is part of a clinical trial that requires her to come to the clinic for regular treatments.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the ways that we manage our pediatric cancer treatments. We have implemented screening stations at the entrance to our clinic and inpatient unit and staff and patients are masking and using protective equipment to help keep everyone safe,” said Program Head of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Derek Hanson, M.D.
“Cancer doesn’t stop just because there is a pandemic happening. We are getting patients the treatments they need and continuing to offer our clinical research trials. We are making sure that every one of our patients continues to receive the best care possible in the safest way possible,” Dr. Hanson explained.
Now, more than ever, patients like Maribel need our help. Please join us in support of Brain Cancer Awareness Month. Tackle Kids Cancer continues to work to find better treatments for pediatric neurological cancers. Currently, Tackle Kids Cancer funding is supporting over a dozen clinical trials and a new research lab at Hackensack Meridian Center for Discovery and Innovation, all dedicated to this disease.
One day, our lives will return to normal – with parties, outings, and vacations. Your gift will help Maribel and other children like her, move closer to that same promise.
Thank you for your support and be well.