Hope for 4-y-o seeking bone marrow transplant

There is a glimmer of hope for four-year-old Kenecia Wisdom, who remains resilient in her fight against acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Even as she endures challenging chemotherapy treatments, striving for a semblance of a normal childhood, the Joe Dimaggio Hospital in Florida has indicated its willingness to do the essential bone marrow transplant. However, the life-saving opportunity may cost as much as US$100,000 (approximately $15.4 million). The family needs to make full payment before she can be admitted.

Kenecia's journey was first featured in THE STAR publication on August 25. She was diagnosed in March, after the appearance of a seemingly innocent rash. That was the start of frequent visits to the Bustamante Hospital for Children, where treatment is administered three to four days each week. Her mother, Kwician Baldin, reflects on the initial shock of receiving the life-altering news.

"I was so worried that I wouldn't have enough time to do all that I could to ensure she gets better. I still worry a lot, but I am hopeful that people will see my situation and help," she said. The arduous chemotherapy regimen initially cast a shadow on Kenecia's vivacity.

"At first when she started chemo, she was sleeping a lot, she would sleep like two or three times for the day. In addition to that, she wasn't eating properly and constantly vomiting. I have to be alert and take her to Bustamante all the way from here in St Mary," Baldin stated.

While doctors suggest that there has been a relative improvement in Kenecia's health, they stressed the urgency of a timely bone marrow transplant, Baldin, a dedicated stay-at-home mom, faces a daunting financial struggle.

"I have been reaching out to social media influencers and government agencies like the National Insurance Scheme for support, but my efforts have yielded no results. The GoFundMe has raised US$1,000 (approximately $154,000) so we have a long way to go," she said.

"I just want to get the treatment money and I will figure everything else out. The doctors here have been communicating with the hospital abroad so I need to come up with the payment."

According to Baldin, her partner, Kenecia's dad, has also been suffering from emotional turmoil.

"He's trying his best to handle it. He carries children to school, he works with the PATH, and every time he interacts with them, he breaks down," Baldin shared.

Persons wishing to assist little Kenecia may donate at https://gofund.me/e10c267d. Persons may also contact her mother Kwician Baldin at 876-304-0336.