Marlene Aguilar

Marlene was the best early Christmas present her mom could ever had hoped for arriving on December 23, 2008. From the very start, Marlene stood out as as very smart little girl who always does her best in every situation. She was always responsible and very caring, two traits that came in handy as she became the big sister to four little brothers and sisters! She always hated it when she had to miss school for any reason and her teachers always found her to be a joy in class. Marlene loves doing her makeup, trying out new and creative looks. Her mom, Maria says that Marlene has always so organized and clean, two traits that are not usually commonly found in your average teenager! For fun, she loves making music videos and taking artistic photos. Spending time with her family is her most favorite thing to do.

Diagnosis

In April of 2024, Marlene started exhibiting concerning symptoms that her mom began to grow more and more concerned about. She was extremely tired and then began to have numbness on just her left side. Marlene had always been a healthy child growing up and was always very independent so her mom, Maria knew something was very wrong. On April 24, 2024, they got the shocking diagnosis of DIPG. Her mom remembers that time as a nightmare where it felt like there was nothing but questions with no answers.

Marlene began her brave treatment journey staring with radiation treatment and has worked hard to maintain her independence and live every single day to the best of her ability. She is loved and supported by her big family who has never given up hope and faith that a miracle for Marlene is coming. Her mom Maria is empowered to share her story, "Because this awesome fighter deserves to be heard." Marlene's DIPG journey has never been easy but her strength and her courage has never wavered.

Marlene is a a gorgeous girl with a beautiful heart and a backbone of steel and the Archer Foundation is proud to support her battle for her very best life.