Courageous Chronicles
Inspiring Tales From Some Of Our Patients
Ellie
🎗️ Ellie, a little warrior who has shown us the true meaning of strength and resilience. At just 15 months old, she was diagnosed with Ganglioneurooma but never let it dim her bright spirit.
🌟 Today, Ellie is an active and joyful little girl who loves being around people. She's been embracing life post-cancer by camping, swimming, and cherishing special moments with friends and family.
💕 Ellie's story reminds us of the importance of continued research and funding for childhood cancer treatments. Let's join together in honoring Ellie and all the brave cancer survivors this month!
Samantha
🌟 Meet Samantha, a shining example of strength and resilience in the face of adversity. At just 16 years old, she was diagnosed with Stage 2A Hodgkin's Lymphoma. But Samantha didn't let cancer define her. With love, support, and determination, she fought back.
💪 After three long months of treatment, Samantha's hard work paid off, and she was declared cancer-free after six months. Fast forward to today, and she's now 23, living her best life, and sharing her inspiring story with the world.
❤️ Samantha's journey is a powerful reminder of the impact that love, support, and cutting-edge treatments can have on a young person's life. Her story is a testament to the importance of continued research and funding for childhood cancer treatments.
Elijah Encarnacion
At just 12 years old, Elijah Encarnacion was diagnosed with APL leukemia. Today, at 19, he is thriving and proving that no challenge is too great when you have determination and heart.
Elijah is currently entering his third year at Seton Hall University, where he is studying physical science with the goal of becoming a therapist. He balances his academic pursuits with his passions for football, basketball, music, and sports. He is also an active member of a fraternity, continuing to build strong connections and leadership skills.
His journey—from courageous young patient to driven college student and athlete—is a powerful reminder of what is possible through resilience, hope, and support.
Gabby
🌟 Meet Gabby, an incredible source of inspiration and a true fighter! At 28, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, but that didn't stop her from pursuing her dreams. Now, at 30, Gabby has defied all odds and emerged victorious in her battle against cancer.
🔬She was treated on a clinical trial developed by our own Dr. Hochberg that uses immunotherapy instead of toxic radiation.
⚾ Gabby is back to doing what she loves—working in sports production and directing a baseball show. She's embracing her "normal" life once again, proving that with determination and courage, anything is possible.
💍 And there's more good news! Gabby is getting married in December, adding another beautiful chapter to her life's story.
Andrew
At just 11 years old, Andrew was diagnosed with alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. This weekend marks 11 years since that life-changing diagnosis—and today, at 22 years old, he is thriving.
Andrew recently graduated from SUNY Orange with a degree in Computer Networking and has begun his career in the college’s Technology Department. His journey is a powerful reminder of what is possible through courage, perseverance, exceptional care, and continued advances in pediatric cancer research.
Kelly
🎗️ Kelly's story... Eight years ago, a diagnosis of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia (APML) threatened to darken my sweet 16. But here I am, just before my 24th birthday, standing tall and proud as a cancer survivor!
💪My journey hasn't been an easy one, but the wisdom I gained at such a young age has shaped me into a stronger and better individual. Every day since my last chemo in 2017, I've chosen to celebrate life, proving that what doesn't break you indeed makes you stronger.
🌈This experience has passionately driven me towards the field of child life. Today, I'm excited to share that I'm working as a full-time Certified Child Life Specialist!
🎉 It's a role that allows me to turn my past into a beacon of hope for others on similar journeys.
Julianna
💫 Meet Julianna Vano - a beacon of strength, resilience, and inspiration. At the tender age of 9, she was diagnosed with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, yet she didn't let it define her journey.
🎗️ Amidst the countless hospital visits, treatments, and the challenges that came her way, Julianna held onto hope and determination. Now 18, she has not only triumphed over her health battles but also reached significant milestones in her life.
💃 She recently dazzled everyone at her prom, lighting up the room with her radiant smile and indomitable spirit. Adding another feather to her cap, she also donned the graduation cap, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
Olivia
🌟 This is Olivia, our little warrior! At the age of 7, she was diagnosed with Severe Aplastic Anemia. But even in the face of adversity, her spirit remained unbroken. Within a month, she underwent a life-saving clinical trial bone marrow transplant. Now, almost two years later, she's thriving and living life to the fullest!
💖From the dance team to the ninja team, from performing in plays to participating in chorus and orchestra concerts, Olivia has jumped back into her activities with boundless energy. She keeps herself busy, radiating happiness and gratitude for her new lease on life.
🏥Her time in the hospital is not forgotten, but it's the kindness and care from the staff, nurses, and doctors that she remembers the most. Olivia's journey is a testament to her resilience, and a reminder of the incredible power of medical science and human compassion.
Jelien
Jelien was diagnosed with Pre-B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at just 3 years old. Now 10, she has become a passionate advocate for children battling cancer. Jelien has partnered with Blood Cancer United to help raise awareness and continues to hope for better treatments and a cure for young patients fighting this disease.
Throughout her journey, Jelien has organized numerous fundraisers supporting various organizations that assist families and children during their cancer battles. She also gives back to the hospital and medical staff who cared for her with gratitude and generosity.
In March 2021, Jelien rang the bell signaling the end of her treatment, which she completed in April 2021. She joyfully celebrated her 5-year milestone in 2026—a testament to her resilience and strength.
An energetic and kind-hearted little girl, Jelien loves to dance and has earned countless Community Service awards for her dedication to the very community that supported her. She is on a mission to change the world, one event at a time, living by her inspiring motto:
“No matter how young you are, you too can make a difference!”
There Are Many Ways You Can Help Support The Children's Cancer Fund
Help us make an impact by exploring the many ways you can contribute. Whether through direct donations, fundraising events, or volunteering your time and skills, each avenue of support adds a meaningful chapter to our collective story in the battle against childhood cancer.
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