What started as a respiratory issue in the fall of 2023, took an unexpected turn for 4-year-old Freya of Grand Forks, ND. “She was seriously struggling to breathe. The local hospital didn’t have the proper equipment, so we were life-flighted to Sanford in Fargo. While her breathing issues were diagnosed as asthma, we were not prepared for the surprising diagnosis that came next,” shared Freya’s mom, Shauna Krese-Frovarp. An x-ray highlighted a section in her left humerus, which they later found out was a rare type of bone cancer.

“We’re grateful to have found it so early,” she told us. After surgery at Mayo Clinic, Freya is doing much better. 

To ensure her care continues, Freya’s family has to make regular trips to Mayo Clinic, which can be taxing financially. She has to have CT scans every three months to ensure the cancer hasn’t resurfaced in another area of her body.   Friends of hers at Freya’s HeadStart program suggested she contact NDAD for assistance.

She contacted NDAD in Grand Forks, completed the financial assistance application forms and was able to obtain assistance with medical travel and lodging. “Gas prices are not forgiving, especially when we must make so many trips to either Mayo Clinic or Sanford. We are so grateful to NDAD for help with gas and hotel stays.”

She recalled that others in her family have relied on NDAD, too. “NDAD is very helpful. Depending on what you need, it’s likely they have something that is for you. They really help take some of the worry out of your situation,” noted Shauna.

If you or someone you know could benefit from NDAD's services, contact the office nearest you.