Natalie was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia at age 9 and has since faced an intense and emotionally demanding treatment journey. Her care has required extended hospital stays and preparation for a bone marrow transplant, including spending weeks in the hospital during the holidays, separated from home and family routines.
Natalie is the middle child of three and is surrounded by the love of her older sister, Zoey and younger brother, Jacob. Her mother, Courtney, is a single parent who works for the Department of Corrections. Since Natalie’s diagnosis, the level of care required has made it difficult for Courtney to maintain her regular work schedule, resulting in a significant loss of income and added financial pressure on the family.
Balancing Natalie’s medical needs with everyday responsibilities has been overwhelming, particularly as the family works to maintain stability at home. Throughout this time, Courtney has remained by Natalie’s side, prioritizing her daughter’s care and emotional well-being above all else.
The Tom Coughlin Jay Fund has provided financial support that has allowed them to stay in their home.
“The hardest part has been losing my ability to work and provide for my children the way I used to,” Courtney shared. “The support we’ve received from the Jay Fund has been the biggest blessing to our family. It has allowed us to focus on Natalie and not live in fear of losing our home.”
