Patient stories, family journeys, and the impact of your support
At just 29, Jerrica was diagnosed with Stage T2N1 invasive breast cancer - and what followed was years of relentless treatment: intensive chemotherapy, a bilateral mastectomy, removal of her ovaries, radiation, and targeted therapy. A BRCA2 mutation meant the stakes were always higher. The cumulative toll left her with chronic fatigue, nerve damage in her feet, lymphedema, and surgical menopause - all while trying to hold onto her career as a teacher.
Today, Jerrica shows no evidence of active disease, but survivorship has brought its own silent hardships - ongoing fatigue and unexpected financial hardship.
As she works to rebuild her life, Isha Cares stepped in to help cover essential expenses and give her some breathing room. Her story is a reminder that cancer’s impact often continues long after treatment ends, and that community support can make a meaningful difference.
"Michael” is an 18-year-old high school senior courageously battling metastatic osteosarcoma. His treatment journey has included major surgery and intensive inpatient chemotherapy.
Michael lives with his grandparents, who have been his primary caregivers and strongest source of support throughout his cancer journey, attending every medical appointment and standing by his side during treatment. With limited parental support, the family continues to face significant emotional and financial challenges, including maintaining the mortgage on the home where Michael lives with his grandparents.
Despite these hardships, Michael remains hopeful and excited to celebrate important milestones in the coming weeks, including attending his senior prom and graduating from high school. Support for Michael and his family during this difficult time would be deeply appreciated.
Baby Ivan is just two weeks old, yet his life already includes hospital rooms, tests, and treatments instead of the comfort of home. Ivan was recently diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare eye cancer affecting infants. His care requires frequent visits to CHOP and Wills Eye Hospital, bringing enormous emotional and financial strain on his family.
Wish List Items:
Size 1 and Size 3 diapers
“All Free & Clear” baby-safe laundry detergent
Baby wipes
Little Sara is a curious, bright 5-year-old who was recently diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. She is currently receiving treatment at CHOP, where her family is doing everything possible to support her through hospital visits, medications, and the many emotional challenges that come with this diagnosis.
Adding to the difficulty, her parents are preparing to welcome a new baby sibling any day now, making the financial strain even heavier. With treatment costs, frequent travel, and caring for a newborn, the family is stretched thin during an already overwhelming time.
Wish List Items
Newborn and Size 1 diapers
Velcro swaddle
Gift card (Walmart, Burlington, or Ross)
Telescope for Sara’s holiday dream
Little Ben a bright, energetic 33‑month‑old who should be spending his days racing toy cars and roaring like a dinosaur - not fighting bilateral retinoblastoma, cancer in both eyes. His treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and Wills Eye Hospital requires frequent medical visits and ongoing monitoring, putting emotional and financial strain on his family.
Wish List Items:
Clothing (size 5T)
Shoes (size 11) little kids
Dinosaur or car toys
Walmart gift card for essentials
Brave Adrian is a playful 34 month old who should be stacking blocks, building with Legos, and zooming toy cars across the floor - not undergoing treatment for B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Diagnosed in September 2025, Adrian is in active treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and the constant appointments and uncertainty place a heavy emotional and financial burden on his mom. Even on hard days, Adrian’s eyes still light up for dinosaurs, cars, and anything he can build.
Wish List Items:
Dinosaur toys
Toy cars
Legos / building toys
Anna is an 18 year old who should be focused on college plans, friends, and her future - not battling osteosarcoma and coping with multiple relapses. Diagnosed in February 2023 and relapsing twice in 2025, Anna continues treatment at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), where she and her family face the emotional, physical, and financial weight of long‑term cancer care. Even through setbacks, Anna stays determined and leans on small comforts and tools that help her feel a little more like a typical teenager.
Wish List Items:
Dual monitor stand to support her schoolwork, creativity, and online connections during treatment
Jellycat “Amuseables Sports Ski Goggles” plush for her 15 year old sister, who has stood by her side through every hospital stay and setback
Your support helps Isha Cares bring moments of joy and normalcy into their life, reminding his family that they are seen, supported, and not alone during their most difficult time.
Families are referred through hospitals, social workers, and partner organizations. Assistance is provided based on eligibility criteria, documented need, and available funds.
Voices from Our Community
"We were preparing for a new baby while watching our little girl fight B-cell ALL. Isha Cares showed up with essentials we desperately needed - and a telescope that made Sara's eyes light up. In the darkest time, they brought her wonder."
- Sara's Mom - Sara, Age 5, Diagnosed with Leukemia
"Two relapses, countless hospital stays, and my sister beside me through every single one. I'm still here, still fighting, still trying to feel like a regular 18-year-old. Isha Cares shows up for families like mine - and that makes a difference you can't measure."
- Anna, 18 | Osteosarcoma, CHOP
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