Public Support Makes Medical Trip Possible for 10- year-old Cordella Duran

Tonight, we bring you back to the story of an incredible ten year old girl who has been on a difficult journey to beat cancer. The last time we heard from Cordella Duran and her mother they were preparing to take a medical trip across the border. Cordella was diagnosed with leukemia three years ago and has completed her chemotherapy, but she was unable to return to her doctors in Mexico to be examined, due to the border closure and financial challenges. But, after Cordella began feeling ill again, her mother made a public plea and organized a barbeque sale to help cover the expenses of the trip. The support they received made the journey possible. Here is Paul Lopez’s update one her condition. 

Paul Lopez, Reporting

Ten year old Cordella Duran continues her journey to being declared cancer free. Over the last week, Cordella and her mom took a medical trip to Mexico. Upon their return, we met with Cordella and her mom to get an update on her condition.

Delilah Arana

Delilah Arana, Mother of Cancer Patient

“When it comes to the update, um the pain that she was getting, the doctor said that it is not related to her Leukemia, so that is good news. But, at the same time he can’t say that she is cancer free. He says she is not cancer free as yet, and he will determine that until five years after. So, our journey continues.”

Cordella Duran

Cordella Duran, Cancer Patient

“I just wanted to hear the news that I was cancer free. But, only God knows when I am ready to ring that bell. But, I just have to stick with faith.”

Local businesses and the wider community were moved to give towards Cordella’s trip after their story was first aired here on Channel Five three weeks ago. Those donations made it possible for them to cover their costs to Merida.

Delilah Arana

“I want to say thank you for putting us out there. We got the help. We had the help. We were able to go to Merida, cover all of our expenses. I am very grateful. There was a lot of business places that reached out to me and I want to say thanks to them, Atlantic Bank Freetown, Medinas, Belmopan Lions Club, Project Jump Start, Mrs. Sandra Mahler who pushed our pass, and each and everyone who put in bank account, those who stopped by, some people for five dollars, ten, I am grateful cause it help.”

Paul Lopez

“What was the experience like when you found out that so many people were listening to your story and willing to support you? They were here for you.”

Cordella

“I was shocked, because I didn’t expect it like that.”

Cordella  continues her recovery, anticipating her victory over cancer. Her mom continues to offer her  unwavering support.

Delilah Arana

“All I need to do is to continue to take care of her, stick to her diet, and be as cautious as possible. Because, from since Cordella was diagnosed, Cordella haven’t had a childhood. She can’t play with other children. She can’t swim in public places. So at least I am grateful to know that her pain is not related to Leukemia, so it gives me a peace of mind. I wanted to hear that she is cancer free, but after every storm there is calm and we will wait for that calm.”

Cordella Duran

“Thanks for everyone that give us the money to go to Merida, thanks everyone that make I go to Merida. Yes, I do not hear the news that I want to hear, but in the next five years I will hear it. So, once I stick with faith and think I will hear the news that I wanted. This time I really wanted to hear the news, but I didn’t get it. But, I know God has a time that is here for me soon. So, I will get it in the next five years, I don’t care what, if my mom gets old, I don’t care.”

Reporting for News Five, I am Paul Lopez.