Episode 7: December is our Month of Miracles, highlighting our strong patients and families, the excellent care at Holtz Children’s Hospital, and the power of community. In this episode, we meet 14-year-old Jake Alexander Kleppen, known to his Instagram community as “Jake the Victorious Warrior.” Jake has not only battled cancer once, but twice, showing a resilience that lifts up everyone around him.

Joined by his mother, Marisel Jarrin Kleppen, and Dr. David Crawford, director of pediatric stem cell transplantation at Holtz Children’s, and specialist at UHealth – University of Miami Health System, Jake shares the journey from his first diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma, a rare bone and soft tissue cancer, at 8 years old , to a shocking second diagnosis of leukemia nearly five years later.

Throughout the episode, listeners hear:

• How a routine check-up unexpectedly revealed a mass behind Jake’s eye.
• The emotional toll of treatment on both Jake and his family, including long hospital stays, isolation, and the fear of cancer coming back.
• Jake’s second cancer diagnosis, and the intense treatment plan that followed with help from the medical team in the bone marrow transplant unit at Holtz Children’s, including a successful bone marrow transplant from his brother.
• How Jake’s humor, optimism, and larger-than-life personality carried him and his care team through their most difficult moments.

This episode is a reminder that miracles are made daily at Jackson through expert care, advanced medicine, and the extraordinary spirit of patients like Jake.

Guest Bios:

Jake Alexander Kleppen

A vibrant 14-year-old and two-time cancer survivor, Jake is known for his upbeat personality, sharp wit, passion for aviation, and his determination to make the best out of every circumstance. Whether flying drones, wearing costumes to clinic visits, or making his care team laugh during rounds, Jake embodies resilience and courage.

Marisel Jarrin Kleppen

Marisol is Jake’s mother and unwavering advocate. She shares her experiences navigating the fear, uncertainty, and emotional toll of watching a child battle cancer twice. Her honesty and strength highlight the importance of family support, mental health resources, and community during long-term pediatric illness.

David Crawford, MD

Dr. David Crawford is the director of pediatric stem cell transplantation at Holtz Children’s Hospital, and a specialist with UHealth – University of Miami Health System. Dr. Crawford specializes in complex pediatric cancers, stem cell transplantation, and the treatment of secondary leukemia. He brings expert insight into Jake’s diagnosis, treatment, and bone marrow transplant.