When every milestone matters

When Hender earned his blue belt in Krav Maga, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. 
I remember that day with nostalgia, but also with immense joy.

In Krav Maga, the blue belt represents the fourth of six levels in the self-defense system, so it was an important achievement for Hender, who practices alongside his brother. As his dad, I’ve supported him and stood by his side at competitions throughout the years. 

Hender shows remarkable determination and discipline in his training, and it fills me with happiness to see how far he has come. 

These simple moments are the ones that truly give meaning to his life — and to ours. 

Hender is my firstborn, and we share the same name. Through him, I’ve learned that every achievement, no matter how small it may seem, represents a victory over the disease he faced at such a young age.

Hender was referred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® at age 6 after he was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma. a type of cancerous tumor that develops in soft tissues. When the first symptoms appeared in his bladder, we thought it was inflammation. We never imagined such a serious diagnosis. 

There are no words to describe what it feels like to receive news of that magnitude, especially when it’s about your child. It felt as though I were carrying the weight of a mountain on my shoulders.

When his hair began falling out in clumps because of treatment, it was hard for him to understand what was happening. Quickly, I decided to shave my head to show my support and give him confidence. Without anyone asking, his brother Alejandro surprised us by doing the same. Hender knew we were all by his side, and that gesture became an emotional balm, one that helped him cope and move forward. 

But St. Jude never left us alone. As a dad, knowing that my son was cared for by highly trained, deeply committed professionals, who are also part of lifesaving scientific research, is priceless.

Today, Hender is a teenager who strives every day to be a better person.  

He dreams of becoming a doctor, like his grandparents, and at school, he is laying the groundwork for a future full of promise. He hopes to share his life experience to help other children and support the search for cures for childhood cancer.

When I look into his eyes, I’m moved by the courage, kindness and goodness I see. That’s why I truly believe I’ve done right by him as a dad. 

He is my greatest pride.