Just before his fourth birthday, Sebastian was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. What followed were countless hospital visits, difficult days and long stretches of uncertainty. The now 6-year-old has remained the joyful, spirited boy he’s always been and has faced his diagnosis with determination beyond his years. When he had surgery to place a port in his chest for chemotherapy, he proudly told his family he was like Iron Man—embracing the strength of a superhero and reminding them that he was strong, too.
Behind Sebastian’s resilience, his family faced overwhelming struggles. His mom, Daisy, left her job so she could be by her son’s side throughout treatment. With five children to care for, the loss of income quickly took its toll. The family fell behind on bills, lost phone service and struggled to buy groceries. At times, Daisy turned to the hospital food pantry to keep meals on the table.
During this incredibly difficult period, the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund walked alongside Sebastian’s family, offering financial assistance with rent, transportation and food expenses. That support helped ease some of the pressure they were facing, allowing Daisy to focus on caring for her children during an overwhelming time.
“I never thought I would have to go through something like this,” Daisy shared. “Knowing the Jay Fund was there made such a difference. It helped relieve some of the stress so I could focus on my kids.”
Sebastian’s story reflects the reality many families face when a child is diagnosed with cancer—where resilience and sacrifice go hand in hand, and support can provide a measure of stability in the midst of uncertainty.
