When high school student Nadeline was diagnosed with high-grade osteosarcoma, her world, and her family’s changed overnight. Her mom, Zena, became her constant caretaker, sacrificing her career and schooling to be by her daughter’s side. All while continuing to care for her three other children and her mother at home.

Even as the family faced countless challenges including hospital stays, surgeries, financial strain, and moments of deep uncertainty, Zena’s strength never wavered. Zena remained a steady source of love and faith, keeping her family together through it all.

Recently, Nadeline’s social worker nominated Zena for a One Mission Heart to Heart Grant, describing her as “one of the greatest mothers in the world.”  Moved by her selflessness and resilience, One Mission wanted to give Zena and her husband, Angel, something they hadn’t had in years, a weekend just for them.

With your support, One Mission was able to send Zena and Angel to their beloved New York City for a much-needed getaway. They walked through Times Square, enjoyed their favorite meal at Carmine’s, and for the first time in a long time, focused simply on being together.

Zena shared, “We got away for a day, away from everything. We ordered the biggest dinner, laughed, and watched the Dia de los Muertos concert in Times Square. It felt so good,  something we could never have done on our own. You and the donors contributed to what happiness feels like. We are so grateful.”

Because of you, caregivers like Zena are given the chance to breathe, reconnect, and feel joy again, a gift that truly changes lives.