For Seth and Niki Barnes, life was all about raising their two kids — Wesley (8) and Emily (6) —and savoring the simple joys of family time. Wesley, a bright and active third grader, loved gymnastics and the thrill of mastering new skills, while Emily cherished their shared routines of games and cozy movie nights. But when Wesley became seriously ill, their world shifted overnight.

Something far more serious

What started as a simple stomach bug quickly became something far more serious. When tests revealed Wesley’s white blood cell count was dangerously high, his parents learned the unthinkable: It was T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Within hours, Wesley was rushed to the PICU at Children’s Nebraska in Omaha, where he began an intense treatment journey — chemotherapy, sedation, respiratory support, even dialysis. The family continues to navigate the challenges of supporting Wesley through treatments and appointments while still showing up for Emily and creating a “new normal” at home.

Holding on to normal

Through it all, Wesley has shown incredible strength — and so have his parents. Niki and Seth have worked tirelessly to maintain a sense of routine for both Wesley and Emily. They find joy in small things: building Legos, reading together, family movie nights, and playing games. They lean on faith, hope, and the support of loved ones as they navigate this new reality, determined to protect the togetherness that defines their family.

The way they lift up others

The Barnes family’s nominators spoke of their strength, compassion, and the way they lift up everyone around them. For years, they’ve been the ones offering help and kindness — whether through Niki’s work as a counselor or their presence in their daycare community. This season, it’s their turn to receive that same care. Their resilience and unwavering love for each other have touched so many hearts, making them truly deserving of a little holiday magic.

Gifts of joy

Thanks to UBT’s Magic Moments team and the generosity of our incredible partners, the Barnes family opened a gift pile overflowing with surprises to make the season brighter. Wesley received a MacBook with AppleCare, a handheld game console, and a Brody Malone gymnastics gear bundle — plus Lego sets for special brother-sister bonding time. Emily discovered Bluey-themed toys, a magnetic playset, and cozy winter gear. Together, the family will enjoy memberships to the Lincoln Children’s Museum and Zoo, a trip to Paint Yourself Silly, movie passes, and dinners at favorite local spots like Casa Bovina and Mi Tierra. Practical items like gas cards and food bundles will help ease daily challenges, while personalized keepsakes for Niki and Seth ensured both parents know how special they are.

Wishing Them the Very Best

We’re wishing Seth, Niki, Wesley, and Emily the season’s very best — and for continued improved health for Wesley. Hang in there, Wesley! Happy holidays, Barnes Family!

You can follow Wesley’s journey at Wesley’s CaringBridge.