Meet our Honored Patients

Eleanor's Story

Shortly after her first birthday, a mysterious rash appeared on Eleanor's arms, legs and cheeks, and she had bruising on her legs and fever. After being admitted to the hospital for more blood tests, we finally heard the diagnosis: acute lymphocytic leukemia.

All the worst thoughts flooded our heads - it was a very dark moment. But then hope. This type of cancer is cured nearly 90 percent of the time. She received her first chemotherapy dose that same day, and a little more than two weeks after the diagnosis Eleanor's leukemia was in remission. Her treatments will continue until January 2012 to make sure it doesn't return.

Eleanor is now 2 1/2, loves playing on the slide and swingset in the backyard and reading her books. In September 2010 we participated in our first Light The Night Walk. Watching Eleanor that night symbolized a turning point - it was a sign that the worst parts of this whole journey were in the rearview mirror. Seeing thousands of illuminated balloons along the route we were hopeful that one day there will be a cure for all cancer!

As told by Garrett and Leigh Wood, Eleanor's father and mother

Jeffer's Story

What began with a fever just before Jeffers' sixth birthday quickly became a nightmare. He was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with acute leukemia. At first, treatments were constant and grueling. Jeffers was selected for an aggressive clinical trial -- good because he got cancer-killing drugs based on the latest research, but bad because of increased side effects. As hard as it was for all of us, treatment was necessary and successful. Now 12, Jeffers is strong, healthy, and a great athlete. Joined by most of his classmates, we've walked in Light The Night since 2004. The support of our friends was an antidote to the isolation of treatment and a big boost for Jeffers. The Walk galvanized the entire school community and helped Jeffers maintain ties with his close friends after he had to repeat first grade. All of us have remained passionate and committed to the event and what it stands for -- hope.

Sari Chang - Jeffers' mom

Jessica's Story

"About a year ago, we rushed our 3-year old daughter to the emergency room. Two days later, our worst fears were confirmed -- our baby had leukemia. Treatment began immediately -- standard chemo and steroids accompanied by fever, hair loss and emotional ups and downs. Through it all, our little girl has remained a trouper.

Last October, as treatment continued, our family participated in The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Light The Night Walk. Our team has collected over $15,000! I think that's pretty awesome considering it's our first year doing it. It's amazing knowing that everyone at the Walk had the same goal -- curing cancer! Everyone had a great time on Walk night, too. The live entertainment kept everyone moving and dancing, the food was plentiful, the camaraderie was amazing and the kids had a wonderful time! The whole thing gives us such hope!

Now there are times when things seem almost back to normal. Jessica is still in treatment but back in pre-school three mornings a week. She's taking tennis lessons, art classes and karate! We're thrilled that as hard as treatment is, there are treatments for leukemia thanks to research. For that we are profoundly grateful."

- Christine Milanese