Meet Champion, Zay

When 9-year-old Zay arrived at The University of New Mexico Children’s Hospital struggling to breathe. She was diagnosed with COVID-19, severe tonsillitis, and sepsis - a life-threatening complication. Her care team worked through the night to stabilize her. Further testing revealed the real cause of her rapid decline: leukemia. Since then, Zay has been receiving cancer treatment at UNM’s Pediatric Infusion Department. Her days are long and challenging, filled with medications, needle pokes, and difficult procedures. But through it all, Zay’s bright spirit, laughter, and love for art continue to shine. She dreams of becoming an illustrator or author, and her joy fills the hospital halls with hope. Thanks to donor-funded Child Life Specialists, Zay has learned to understand her treatments, manage her fears, and feel safe during difficult procedures.