Liliana (Lily) is a little girl with immeasurable strength. At 4 years old, she spends most days daydreaming about her two favorite things: princesses and unicorns. While her father is serving in the US Navy, Lily has her mom and four siblings to keep her company. Although she’d rather be leading a kingdom, Lily’s rule resides over B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Eight months ago, Lily received her diagnosis and entered treatment. Even after a port placement, blood transfusions, and unexpected side effects, Lily always finds time to smile. She’s experienced several rarities like rashes from transfusions, severe hip and leg pain, restless leg syndrome, mouth and stomach sores, and even pneumonia. Although she doesn’t always grasp what’s happening, Lily likes when others are straightforward with her, and she always holds still for the doctors to access her port.

For a large family, going through treatment without Lily’s siblings around can be challenging. Since her diagnosis, Lily’s two eldest siblings have started struggling with their mental health. At the ages of 10 and 12 years old, they are seeing an oncology psychologist to help cope with several serious mental health problems they’re facing during Lily’s fight. Due to the pandemic, her siblings are not allowed in the hospital, and her 2-year-old brother had to start preschool during the week. As a military family, Lily’s mom, Tiffany, often cares for the kids on her own while her husband is working on ships. Recently, they faced one of their toughest moments yet: having to shave Lily’s head.

Tiffany had to step away from her business to help Lily, which has left a financial burden on their family. With a seven-person household, Lily’s mom says the assistance they received from Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation for groceries “meant everything to us.” Despite the obstacles she and her family have faced during her journey, Lily continues to embody resilience and still finds a way to be their happy little girl.

Information provided by Tiffany, Lily's mom

Updated June 2021