23 Feb Alonso Serna’s Battle with Leukemia

For the Serna family, February 16th, 2023, will forever be etched in their memories as one of the darkest days of their lives. The Serna family’s world was shattered when Alonso Serna received the devastating diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia. What followed was a tumultuous journey marked by heartache, challenges, and the unwavering bond of familial love.

Alonso’s mother vividly recalls the surreal feeling of disconnect as she grappled with the reality of her son’s diagnosis. “I still feel like on that day I was living out of my own body,” she shares, reflecting on the overwhelming emotions that engulfed her. The initial shock of the diagnosis sent shockwaves through the family, triggering a whirlwind of emotions ranging from disbelief to profound sadness. Coping with the news was an arduous journey, both emotionally and physically. The weight of uncertainty bore heavily on their shoulders, disrupting their daily lives and routines. Sleepless nights became routine as they tirelessly stood by Alonso’s side. Simple tasks felt like monumental challenges, and every day seemed like an uphill battle.

In the wake of Alonso’s diagnosis, the Serna family faced a daunting array of challenges, each one seeming more formidable than the last. Understanding his illness became a crash course in medical terminology and treatment options, with the family navigating through a maze of information in search of hope. Grappling with the uncertainty of what lay ahead, it cast a shadow over their once ordinary lives, infusing each day with a sense of trepidation and urgency.

However, amidst the chaos, the family found solace in their collective resolve to stand by Alonso’s side no matter what. This unwavering commitment became their guiding light through the darkest of times. Yet, the logistics of being there for Alonso presented an entirely different challenge. Their home in Laredo, Texas, located a staggering 2.5 hours away from the hospital, posed a set of problems, especially with their nine-year-old daughter still at home nearly 3 hours away. Alonso’s mother recalls, “We were willing to sleep on the hospital floor if it came down to it,” a testament to their unconditional love and unwavering dedication to their son’s well-being.

Ronald McDonald House San Antonio Gives the Care Families Need

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of San Antonio came to the family’s attention when the hospital’s social worker introduced them to the possibility of staying at RMHC San Antonio while their young son received treatment. The Serna family found hope in knowing they could remain together during Alonso’s treatment. Not only would RMHC keep the Sernas together, but it also allowed them to stay in the hospital where Alonso ‘s was receiving treatment from. Alonso’s battle with leukemia necessitated a bone marrow transplant, ushering in another chapter of pain and uncertainty for the Serna family.

Throughout this arduous journey, RMHC continued to be a source of strength and comfort, offering them a larger room and showering them with love and support. Even Alonso’s sister, Daniella, found comfort and guidance from the RMHC staff as she navigated the complexities of being her brother’s bone marrow donor. RMHC not only provided them with a place to stay but also offered invaluable emotional support and a sense of community during their darkest days.

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of San Antonio offers vital support to families with seriously ill or injured children by providing comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, and transportation assistance at no cost. For families like the Sernas, who faced the daunting challenge of having their son Alonso undergo treatment for leukemia, RMHC provided a lifeline during their darkest hour. From the warm meals to the thoughtful gifts and the sense of community, RMHC San Antonio became a beacon of hope for the Sernas family during their 11-month journey.

Your support for RMHC San Antonio goes beyond mere donations; it becomes a lifeline for families like the Sernas, as they navigate through childhood cancer. Your generosity ensures they never walk alone, providing comfort and unwavering support every step of the way. By donating, you become an integral part of Alonso’s journey, offering hope, strength, and crucial services to families facing similar challenges. Join us in making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.