My daughter, Mia Rose Mercedes Lopez, was 10 years old when she passed away on October 8, 2026. Mia was funny, smart, witty, and had the biggest heart. She loved dancing, gymnastics, music, and her favorite girl group, KATSEYE. Her dream was to be in a global girl group herself when she grew up. She had such a big personality and loved making others laugh.
On April 7, 2026, after weeks of headaches, neck pain, and multiple doctor visits, Mia was diagnosed with a brain tumor. We later learned she had an extremely rare and aggressive cancer called CIC-DUX4 sarcoma. Over the next six months, Mia endured multiple brain surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, and countless days in the hospital. Through everything she went through, she never lost her personality.
Mia was always someone who cared deeply about others, so when I was given the opportunity to donate her eyes, I knew it was something she would have wanted. Recently, I learned that someone who was severely visually impaired received a corneal transplant because of Mia’s donation. Knowing that Mia was able to help someone else, even after her passing, means so much to me. I know she would be so happy to know she made a difference in someone’s life.