A special St. Cloud family going through a trying time could use some support for a young child.
Thanks to a rallying neighbor, that chance comes Tuesday.
The Romualdos just moved to the St. Cloud area a few months ago. Their young daughter Nicole was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, a cancer of the body's connective tissues, like tendons or cartilage. While it is possible to cure nearly 3 of every 4 children with this sarcoma, based on factors some prognoses can be favorable or less favorable.
Nicole has received a tracheotomy to help with breathing and is undergoing pretty aggressive chemo treatments at Nemours children’s hospital in Lake Nona.
"This has derailed their family, but they have continually showed faithfulness to God and hope," neighbor and fellow parent Heather Gibbs said. "Since they moved here they don’t have much of a support system of friends or family and could use some rallying support from the community."
Since Nicole's treatments have taken priority, Debora and Will, Nicole’s parents, had to make the tough choice to cancel a special event. To make up for it, Gibbs and other friends and neighbors are working to plan a birthday parade to show them support, celebrate Nicole, and give them a bright day during such a tough time on an important day.
The parade will be on Tuesday (Sept. 21) at 5 p.m. in the Narcoossee area off Jack Brack Road. Those joining in are asked to meet at the boat ramp area on Chisholm Park trail south of Jack Brack. The parade will turn on Jack Brack, then left on Tyson Road, then make the first lefts on Mayor Drive and Olive Court. The family's home is on the left side of the street. Car decorations are encouraged. "The bigger the better!" Gibbs said.
Further details will be posted on the Facebook event page, Nicole's in Onederland Surprise Birthday Parade (https://fb.me/e/14gZzcGFc), which also includes a short Amazon wish list, for those inclined to donate a gift.
"It's been a bit Definitely last minute because we didn’t know if she would be released from the hospital. We are trying to get as many community members involved as possible," Gibbs said.
