Good as Gold

A golden birthday is when the age you’re turning is the same as your birth date. For Itzel, her golden birthday meant so much more. Itzel and her family were not only celebrating her birthday, but also being almost one year cancer free!

In December 2018, Itzel was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), which is a cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow. Healthy bone marrow products a wide variety of red and white blood cells that work together to keep you healthy. People with ALL produce too many of a certain type of white blood cell, which are not as effective in fighting off infection. The more of these cells that are produced, the less room there is for all of the other healthy cells to do their job.

While the news came as a shock, Itzel’s family knew they had to act fast. After countless procedures and doctors visits, Itzel finally reached remission in January of 2019. Almost one year later on her birthday she was still in remission. While the treatments may not have stopped, she’s now able to go to school, sing, and celebrate with her friends and family!

After missing out on her last birthday because of her illness, the family was thrilled to throw her an all-out, golden birthday unicorn bash! Icing Smiles joined the party with a pink and purple unicorn cake that matched Itzel perfectly. Everyone had a blast at Itzel’s special day! To follow Itzel on her journey, visit her Facebook page.