KILLEEN, Texas — A foundation in Killeen is turning the memory of a young warrior into a beacon of hope for families battling childhood cancer.
Established in March 2024, Nadeiah's Warriors Foundation carries forward the legacy of Nadeiah Maraieh Cruz-Wright, whose seven-year battle with cancer inspired a mission of support and compassion.
"Nobody fights alone," says Jane Hanley, a former teacher who worked closely with Nadeiah during her time at KISD. "That's the message we want every family facing childhood cancer to hear."
Nadeiah was just five years old when she was diagnosed with stage four embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma. Throughout her seven-year journey, she faced cancer four times, maintaining a spirit of generosity that touched everyone around her. Even during hospital stays and doctor visits, she found ways to support other children facing similar battles. She lost her battle with cancer earlier this year.
"Nadeiah, even through her final days, was always just so giving, so loving and supportive of other kids," Hanley recalls, her voice filled with emotion. "Through the hospital stays, through the visits with doctors, she encompassed that with other kids that were going through what she was going through."
The foundation, established by Nadeiah's parents, Jadeen and Cortez Wright, alongside her sister, Ladaisha Cruz, aims to provide comprehensive support to families navigating the challenges of childhood cancer treatment. Their mission extends beyond financial assistance, focusing on creating moments of joy and lasting memories for families during their most challenging times.
"One of the biggest things that we want to do is to be able to provide that emotional piece," explains Hanley. "To give these kids a little bit of happiness, something to look forward to, to just continue to be that little bit of hope that maybe is missing."
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Nadeiah's Warriors Foundation offers several support programs, including:
- Personalized care packages for children undergoing treatment
- Family outings designed to create lasting memories
- Educational activities for affected children
- Emotional support networks for families
The foundation's impact is already being felt in the community, with events bringing together supporters, survivors, and families currently fighting their own battles. Their recent holiday event featured special activities and a visit from Santa, embodying their commitment to creating moments of joy amid difficult circumstances.
Multiple avenues are available for those looking to support the foundation's mission. The organization accepts donations through its website and Facebook page and regularly hosts community events where supporters can contribute directly to their cause.
"That little spark and shine shows them that even though their situations may be difficult, they may be critical, there's always somebody there," Hanley says. "Somebody in their corner that is hoping for the best possible outcome and that has been there and wants to see them through."