Maya was diagnosed with DIPG at 6 years old in December 2020 and battled 13 months and 5 days. Maya is a fraternal twin and IVF miracle baby! Maya’s parents became concerned when she told her Mommy her hand was shaking, and they noticed her balance was off. When they took her to the Children’s Hospital, the Doctor ordered an MRI revealing a brain mass. A biopsy confirmed she had a brain tumor called DIPG, and they were told it was very aggressive and difficult to treat pediatric brain cancer. Maya was immediately put on steroids and started her 33 sessions of radiation. In February, she participated in the ONC201 trial at NYU traveling monthly for treatment, blood work, physicals, and MRIs. By July, Maya’s symptoms were returning. She lost movement in her legs prompting a wheelchair and enrollment into Hospice care. Within a month, she also lost her ability to speak clearly and arm strength. Maya received one more round of radiation regaining her left arm movement. In October, they participated in the Ribociclib and Everolimus trial with no improvement. One day Maya looked at her Mommy and said, “No more doctors Mumma.” Her mom knew Maya’s journey was coming to an end, and she shortly afterwards fell into a coma. They never left her side. Maya had been diagnosed on the autism spectrum due to sensory issues, but never let autism or cancer define her! She loved playing puzzles, board games and LOL dolls with her fraternal twin sister, Abby. Maya kept her IPAD nearby playing make up design and puzzle apps. Her all time favorite show was SpongeBob, and he was always on in the background even when she wasn’t awake. Her mom's advice for other parents is to be your child’s biggest advocate. Seek others who have battled the same cancer and organizations like The Cure Starts Now to help with questions about different treatments and expectations. Maya's mom wants you to know it’s ok to mention Maya's name. She never wants Maya forgotten and makes sure she is a part of their daily lives.

Thank you for choosing to donate to The Cure Starts Now Foundation. 100% of this donation, after credit card processing fees, goes directly towards research to find the homerun cure for cancer starting with pediatric brain cancer research.

If you would like to make a donation by mail please send a check to:  The Cure Starts Now Foundation; 10280 Chester Road; Cincinnati, OH 45215 and put the child's name in the memo.

The family receives notification of all donations made to this tribute fund automatically.