6-year-old Evelyn Rivera, a kindergarten student at Henry J. Kalfas Elementary School in Niagara Falls, is courageously fighting a rare and aggressive form of cancer. As she undergoes extensive treatment, the community is stepping up to support her and her mother, Lineshka, during this challenging time.
Evelyn’s health battle began in June 2024 just weeks before her 6th birthday when she was diagnosed with an ovarian teratoma. Ovarian teratomas are rare tumors that develop from germ cells and can contain various types of tissue such as hair, muscle, or bone. While some teratomas are benign, others can become malignant requiring immediate medical intervention. Evelyn underwent surgery to remove the mass and, initially, her recovery seemed promising.
However, last month she was hospitalized at Oishei Children’s Hospital after experiencing severe stomach pain and swelling. Doctors discovered a pelvic mass and nearly three liters of fluid buildup. Further testing led to a devastating diagnosis: Stage IV high-grade glioma consistent with gliomatosis peritonei. This condition, an extremely rare and aggressive form of cancer, has spread throughout her body. The treatment now required is extensive.
With Evelyn now facing long-term hospital stays, weekly visits from traveling nurses, and demanding 6-day inpatient treatments, her mother has had to take extended unpaid leave from work to be by her side. The financial burden of medical expenses and lost wages has become overwhelming.
To help ease the strain, a teacher at Kalfas Elementary has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Evelyn and her mother. The fundraiser aims to provide financial relief so Lineshka can focus on her daughter’s care without added stress. Community members are encouraged to contribute in any way they can to assist this brave young girl and her family.
If you would like to donate, you can do so here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/88xqn-help-evelyn-fight-cancer-a-brave-little-girls-journey/update/36066059/gallery/5?lang=en_US&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp13_t1-amp14_t1&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&attribution_id=sl%3Adfc35f3b-b9cc-44af-bf5e-7d9ce380bc0e
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