We got an email from Erin who nominated Nitara for a KDWB Christmas Wish. Here's what she wrote:
As teachers, we come across hundreds of families in our careers and there are families that stand out to us that we will never forget. At Oak Grove Elementary this is the Frost-Trahan family - Willa, Terrison, Traedyn, Eli, Drue, and their moms, Nitara and Tabatha, The children are all exceptional and have varying needs, some of which require lots of time and support. Both Nitara and Tabatha have always been available to support the needs of their children in and out of school. They have a full schedule due to five children participating in extra-curricular activities all while keeping the normal everyday routine in tact. This summer Tabatha was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. In July she had a double mastectomy and removal of her left axillary Lymph nodes. She is currently undergoing chemotherapy and radiation. Even with the diagnosis, and grueling treatments, they continue to put their kids first by keeping them in sports and providing emotional support to deal with the fear that comes with this diagnosis. The diagnosis and treatment has taken a noticeable toll on the children, but cancer is not the focus in this family. We admire these parents for what they do for their children born to different biological parents to make sure the kids see themselves as one family and above all else, experience the love that every child deserves. After the heartbreaking diagnosis this summer, we have no words to describe how impressed we are with how they have faced this challenge. For this family, the staff at Oak Grove Elementary want them to feel love and support this holiday season.
We were able to surprise Nitara and Tabatha and their family with tons of things to help keep their family going - including gift cards from CobornsDelivers.com, SuperAmerica, Davanni's, Masu Sushi & Robata and more. Plus, Nitara is able to have some "me" time at Massage Retreat & Spa. The family is also able to go to Myth Busters as well as Nickelodeon Universe at Mall of America. We got the family a gift card to AMC theaters as well as Cheesecake Factory, a membership to the Arboretum, a new Keurig, movies, and toys. All five of the kids received tons of board games (Monopoly, Battleship, Guess Who?, and more!). The rest of the presents include makeup kits, more gift cards, Lego sets, Pokemon cards, coloring books and more!
We have to issue a super special thanks to Conagra Brands and its employees in Maple Grove for donating $1,500 to help support the Christmas Wish!
As one of our partners this year, EVERY Christmas wish will be receiving a $101 gas card courtesy of SuperAmerica! as well as a grocery gift card from CobornsDelivers.com.
We couldn't do KDWB's Christmas Wish without your donations. Click here to make a tax-deductible donation. Special thanks to Venture Bank. Plus, part of the donations will automatically go to YouthLink to help homeless youth in the Twin Cities.