In August of 2019, our little Super Nova was diagnosed at age four with Pineoblastoma. Prior to this date, she was a healthy happy typical little girl who loved dancing, mermaids, playing with friends, and unicorns. 

From August 2019 through March 2020, she endured brain surgery to remove the tumor, other surgeries medically related to treatment, 30 rounds of proton radiation, 4 chemo cycles, 4 stem cell transplants, multiple blood and platelet transfusions, and many clinic visits for labs and follow-ups.  She had really hard days but most days she made the best of it with her amazing personality. Nova is the fine line between grit and princess. She loves all things girlie but doesn't mind digging for earthworms or using Dad's tools.

She was greatly affected by the permanent harsh side effects of the radiation. She became legally blind in both eyes, permanently lost her hair due to radiation alopecia, had microbleeds in her brain and her growth hormone was inactive. 

After the treatment, Nova was able to graduate from kindergarten, dance ballet again and enjoy growing up with her family and friends. She was cancer-free for three years and appeared healthy again.  

We found out after a routine MRI in November 2021 that Nova’s cancer returned.  This time with multiple tumors in her brain and spine. She received 12  months of chemo. She was truly a warrior.  

Nova won her battle with cancer in July of 2024. 

"We cannot think of a better way to honor Nova's fight with brain cancer than to bring awareness and raise funds so other children don't have to fight." -The Baker Family

We are grateful to The Cure Starts Now for all they are doing to help find the cure for all warriors. 

Thank you for choosing to donate to The Cure Starts Now Foundation. 100% of this donation, after credit card processing fees, goes directly towards research to find the homerun cure for cancer starting with pediatric brain cancer research.

If you would like to make a donation by mail please send a check to:  The Cure Starts Now Foundation; 10280 Chester Road; Cincinnati, OH 45215 and put the child's name in the memo.

The family receives notification of all donations made to this tribute fund automatically.