Reilly Cardella decided it was time to get a tattoo when she turned 18. The decision and was easy – a ladybug on her ankle.

“(It was) just to kind of have her memory with me forever,” she said.

The tattoo came to honor her childhood friend, Kassie, who died from cancer at the age of 13. This year marks a decade since she lost her friend.

That made it the perfect year to start a charity in her honor, too.

“I only knew her for about two years. We just instantly became friends,” explained Cardella, 22, who grew up in Michigan before moving to sunny Florida at 18.

Reilly Cardella was crowned Miss Apopka 2024 at the Miss Apopka Scholarship Competition on Saturday, December 2, at the Apopka High School auditorium. She succeeds Sarah Sarver as the titleholder.

As Miss Apopka, Cardella, who hails from the Tampa area, qualifies to compete for the Miss Florida title. The titleholder of Miss Florida will then go on to enter the Miss America Competition.

Reilly Cardella

Gift a bereavement painting

Gift a copy of "Hope has no Hair"

Gift a doll

Gift a wellness package

On August 16, 2023 Ellora was brought to the pediatrician for a bump in her abdomen and some right sided belly tenderness that was brought to our attention by her dance teacher the day before. The next day, she underwent a 7 hour surgery to remove her right kidney, part of her colon, her appendix, and a tumor roughly the size of a volleyball. Within the days that followed, her oncology team confirmed that Ellora had a Stage III Wilms Tumor. 

Since that summer day, Ellora has faced cancer head on and wearing a princess dress; 7 rounds of radiation and 25 weeks of chemo. She completes treatment on February 12, 2024. She has worn a different port-accessed princess dress (with accessories!) to each chemo infusion appointment and loves giving out stickers, treats, and crafts to all the staff and patients at clinic! She is excited to donate all her princess dresses to other little girls going to their chemo appointments! 

Ellora was born with fire in her veins and filled to the brim with an inexplicable magic. She has crystal blue eyes and curly red hair that we are so excited to see make its return. She loves dancing, drawing, fashion, reading, making new friends, and cats. She is a big sister to her two little brothers Rhys and Atlas and has been loving first grade so far. Throughout her cancer journey, Ellora has taught us grown ups so much about bravery and how we can all do hard things (and look great doing them)! Slay little queen!! #BraveLikeEllora

Ellora Hendrickson

Julia was diagnosed with B-Cell ALL in August 2020 at the age of 2 years and 8 months. She is a tough cookie and we are grateful that she “kicked cancer’s butt,” as she likes to say, after 2 and a half years of treatment. She is now in kindergarten and loves school, playing with her siblings and friends, dancing ballet and tap, and  practicing ninjitsu!

Julia Dwyer

I have been a pediatric oncology nurse at Hasbro Children's Hospital since 2006. I worked on the inpatient unit until 2020 when I took a position in the Tomorrow Fund clinic - Hasbro's outpatient hematology/oncology clinic. I am still working full-time in the Tomorrow Fund on the hematologic malignancy team, caring for infants, children, adolescents, and young adults with cancers of the blood, such as leukemia and lymphoma.
In January 2022, I decided to go back to school to become a Family Nurse Practitioner and was accepted into the FNP program at Salve Regina University. Although managing full-time work and school has been challenging and time-consuming, expanding on my expertise and skillsets has been rewarding, and I am on the right path in my nursing career.
In my spare time, I enjoy seeing live music at concerts and festivals, going to musical theater, traveling, reading, and spending time at home with my 22-year-old son, Adam,  and a 7.5-year-old dog-daughter named Panda.

Glenna Swann

One day in 2004, my grandfather and I were home playing. It was an average day, until I complained about a stomachache. When I got up from the couch, I remember my whole body went limp and I fell - I was just 4 years old. I went to the ER, and a series of tests were performed. On November 17, 2004 I was diagnosed with stage IV Neuroblastoma. The cancer had metastasized throughout my body. It was behind my eyes, and all the way down into my chin. I had two large tumors in my abdomen, one wrapped around my renal artery.  I went through intense chemotherapy and radiation. I lived at Hasbro Children's hospital. I also required a stem cell transplant. After a year and a half they were able to fight the cancer that spread and shrink the tumor. I was finally in remission.

In 2008, I spent the day at Fort Adams with my grandparents and my brother. I was just 7 years old. After the day, my grandmother noticed a lump on my collarbone while she was giving me a bath. I was taken to the hospital, a few days later was diagnosed with Stage III Ewing's Sarcoma. Which was rare for children, and totally unrelated to the first cancer. I was treated with chemotherapy and radiation, and later had my clavicle completely removed. A scar and physical impairment that I am most insecure about. Through this I am most grateful to be alive.

In 2017, not even 6 hours after my grandfather passed away unexpectedly. I found a lump under my jaw. I immediately knew. I was diagnosed (again) on November 17, 2017 with Neuroblastoma. It was a completely different cancer, and rare for me to have it as a teenager. I went through an antibody treatment, chemotherapy, and radiation. I am lucky to say that I am cancer free to this day, and I continue to beat the odds.

Alexandra Wilson

Strength, Courage, and Bravery are words that might seem a little premature to associate with a 3-year-old. However, these are terms that our precious daughter Emilia (Emi) has been forced to embrace as she is battling the biggest fight of her life, a battle against Neuroblastoma (NB).

February 21, 2023 was the end of the old, and the start of a new journey for Emi. The day she was diagnosed with Stage IV, High Risk Neuroblastoma just days before her 3rd birthday. A rare and aggressive form of cancer that originated in her right adrenal gland, eventually metastasizing throughout her body and into her bone marrow.

Emi has been thrown into a world that no child should ever have to go through. However, like so many of her favorite Disney Princesses she arises to these challenges with grace and dignity. Never wavering in her demeanor or curiosity. Emi is currently in active treatment, each day getting stronger to face the next challenge in overcoming cancer!

Emilia Lun

"On January 25, 2020, Mila was diagnosed with High Risk B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. After enduring 29 months of chemotherapy, three surgeries, and countless weeks in the hospital, she finally finished treatment in May of 2022 and has continued to remain in remission. 

Mila is a little girl with a big personality. She loves to dance and can constantly be heard singing songs she made up herself around the house. She loves going outside and playing with her best friend, her little brother, Benjamin. Mila hopes to be a mermaid when she grows up!"

Mila Pagan

I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 38, ten months after my dad was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. My dad passed away four months later and the very next day, I started my radiation treatment. I learned positivity, strength and resilience from my dad and my own cancer journey.

Jen Passarella

UmaSofia Srivastava

I am a registered nurse at Hasbro Children’s Hospital in the pediatric oncology inpatient unit. I have had the honor and  privilege to take care of many children and families over the last 20 years of my career. First and foremost I am a mom of three sons. One of which is a cancer survivor, Connor  was three years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia, we spent 2 1/2 years in and out of the hospital during his treatment ,he inspired me to become a pediatric nurse. I am now committed to helping other children and families go through similar experiences in any way  I can regardless of the outcome. We were the lucky ones, Connor is now healthy 26 years old and working towards his PhD and cancer research. I am thankful everyday, and will continue to dedicate myself to these kids and families, and never take anything for granted.

Tracy Hennessey

Guinevere was diagnosed April 24th 2023 with High risk B-cell ALL Leukemia. She was 2.5 when we started, and has such a big personality. She is being treated at SUNY upstate medical university and Galisano children’s hospital in Syracuse NY. She has a long road of at least 2.5 years of treatments ahead of her but she hasn’t let that slow her down or stop her. 
Ever since she was a baby people would stop me in the store to tell me how her smile made her day. Now with that same “special something” she has made all her doctors and nurses fall in love with her. Along with all the support staff through the clinic and hospital. Some of them go out of their way to see her, or others even track her down to meet her because they have heard so much about her. It is really something to see people light up when they see your child. Guinevere also loves her team just as much. Whenever we have clinic days, we have to go visit the Ped/onc floor to see her “friends” the nurses. She is the best patient. No matter what needs to be done, and how afraid and upset she is, she sits so still and lets them do the job. It makes me so proud.
She has such a wide range of interests., from being a girly girl or a strait savage. She loves music, and dancing. She now does ballet and tap. She loves makeup and nail polish. She is known to drag her purse full of makeup and chapstick. You will normally find her in the biggest fanciest dresses. The more sparkle the better. Even in those dresses she is the first one to sit in the mud and start playing too. She is constantly getting excited when she sees “mommy’s buffalo!” (The Buffalo bills).She started playing soccer and really enjoys that. She loves animals, including her 3 dogs and cat. Before her diagnosis she was taking horse ridding lessons too. She loves her older brother Colton. Watching him play his sports, or making him play with her she will take all the time with him she can. 
We are definitely proud of our savage warrior princess.

Guinevere Millea

In June of 2019, at the age of 36, I was diagnosed with Stage 2b, grade 3, HR positive, HER 2 negative invasive ductal carcinoma.
 
If you are anything like me, that may not make a lot of sense or you may be asking what does that mean? Without any prior family history, I had developed an aggressively growing breast cancer.
 
At the time of my diagnosis my husband and I had recently moved in to a new home, and our then, 4 year old, daughter was wrapping up Pre-K. To say it turned our world upside down is an understatement.
 
Treatment began abruptly and I found myself in the midst of 8 rounds of chemo at the very time we were celebrating our daughter starting kindergarten. While I had an enormous amount of support from family and friends, I didn't have anyone that truly knew what I was experiencing, as a mother and young woman fighting for her life.
 
I became connected to a local Breast Cancer organization and started to understand how truly important it was to my own healing journey to start to immerse myself in their community and form relationships. These relationships have shaped the trajectory of the healing process, not just for myself but for my family. Becoming involved was the best decision as my family and I know have an extended family through the relationships we have forged. 

While I am still going through the steps of the reconstruction process, and taking multiple medications to lessen my chances of recurrence, I am grateful for each moment. I am not just surviving, I am thriving!

Kayla Figueiredo

Back in October 2024 Justin was not looking like himself and was bruising easily so we took him to the walk in and were told to go to hasbro immediately. Once we got to hasbro he was taken in for blood work and it was confirmed what I had been thinking . He has leukemia! It was the worst news we could have gotten . We were both in shock and very upset . He was admitted to the hospital and went into treatment. He was there for 31 days . On November 30th we got amazing news ! He was now in remission! He still has on going treatment and will still need chemotherapy for the next year and a half or so . But overall he is doing good for a child going through such a tough treatment. He’s been out of school since Oct 6th and will be going back at least part time this month .

Justin Degnan

Ruby Mac is a Rhode Island based singer songwriter. Pulling inspiration from a range of artists including big names like Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish, & Ed Sheeran plus rising acts such as Gracie Abrams & Maisie Peters. Most would describe her well curated blend of originals and covers as "acoustic-pop". While written from the perspective of a 21 year old, her music resonates with fans of all ages touching on the emotions and struggles of everyday life and love. Mac can regularly be seen performing throughout the Northeast and is preparing to release new music this coming year.

Ruby McAloon

Camilla is a female foodie and self proclaimed Rhode Island’s biggest cheerleader. While working full-time as a software developer, she finds the time to help local businesses, especially restaurants with marketing and advertising. She sets up photo shoots and creates content for social media platforms in hopes of targeting new audiences for these businesses.

Recently, she starred in the Netflix original series, Squid Game: The Challenge as Player 367. She competed for $4.56 million with 456 people around the world.

Camilla Akbas

"Audrey McClelland is a co-host at The Rhode Show, author, and digital influencer. She has worked in the digital space since 2005, working with brands and companies on digital marketing, social media, and content creation strategies.

Her main digital property, Mom Generations, is in its 18th year and is an online destination for mothers that provides information on all things parenting, lifestyle, fashion and beauty. Audrey also shares her personal experiences on her blog, giving nod to the reason she started blogging over 18 years ago – to share stories about her motherhood experiences. Audrey is the mother of 5 children.

Audrey has utilized other social media platforms - Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Pinterest, and Twitter - to elevate her social media presence and expertise. She was named to “The Power Pack” Moms in Nielson’s Online Power Moms list, naming her one of the most influential moms online. Audrey’s naturally honest, real and positive approach to sharing parenting advice has led to features in numerous parenting and lifestyle magazines, TV shows, news segments, speaking gigs, radio shows, and popular websites. Audrey was cast on TLC’s parenting show, “What She Said” and she’s part of the first- ever prestigious YouTube’s Parenting Panel.

Audrey has a B.A. from Brown University and lives in Rhode Island."

Audrey McClelland

For 30-plus-years, Brian Mulhern has been an award-winning radio personality, podcaster, and comedy writer for the likes of Jay Leno, Phil Hartman, and "The MTV Movie Awards." He's also been a playwright, comedian, and roast participant/honoree for the RI Comedy Hall of Fame. He has served as a board member for both The Rhode Island Radio/TV, and Pawsox Halls of Fame. His lovely wife Carla is the executive director of The Izzy Foundation. The two are lifelong Rhode Islanders, and very active in the community. They're proud to be longtime residents of Chepachet with his stepson Jonathan, and their beloved beagle Rerun.

Brian Mulhern

"Lindsay Iadeluca is a Rhode Island girl who served a decade in the broadcast news business.
An advocate for mental health, Lindsay decided to take her love from stories, to a new career path. She is currently a masters student at Rhode Island college to become a LMHC (licensed mental health counselor) with a dream to open her own practice down the line and continue to work to change the world a little bit at a time. 
She currently works for the American Heart Association as a director or development.
She’s a lover of food, cats and following the path that life takes her on!"

Lindsay Iadeluca

Shannon Hegy co-anchors the 5, 6, 6:30, 10 and 11 p.m. newscasts.

She was raised in Windsor, Connecticut, but spent much of her childhood vacationing in Rhode Island. She’s always had a love affair with the Ocean State and told her parents at a very young age that she would live here one day.

Shannon graduated from Hofstra University in New York in 2007 with a degree in broadcast journalism. There, she interned at the Today Show in New York City and anchored Hofstra News Now, the school’s monthly news program. It’s also where she met her husband Matt. (The two were married in October 2012.)
In 2013, she decided she was ready for the next step in her career, and joined the talented team at WPRI 12. In addition to her work on the anchor desk, Shannon prides herself on being an “active anchor,” getting out in the community to cover the stories that matter.

At just two months old, her son Carter came down with bacterial meningitis in September 2017. He spent 10 weeks in the hospital bravely battling the potentially deadly infection. Shannon shared “Carter’s Story” with 12 News viewers to spread awareness about bacterial meningitis and encourage other parents to trust their instincts.  Thankfully, Carter fully recovered with no lasting impacts.  His story was nominated for a New England Emmy Award in 2019.

Shannon Hegy

"Jessica Marfeo graduated from St. Joseph school of Nursing as salutatorian and Mary mother evangelist award winner. Currently she is working as the nurse clinical leader at South County Hospital Cancer Center. Working as an oncology nurse is an honor for Jessica, after her own battle with neuroblastoma cancer, and being the big sister to the late Michael Marfeo Jr who lost his battle in 1998.
 
Jessica recently obtained her master’s degree in healthcare administration and certificate of healthcare leadership, at Salve Regina University. Her future ambition is to earn her Doctorate and work as a chief nursing executive at a local area hospital.
 
Jessica is also a former Miss Rhode Island. At Miss America 2014 Jessica was top five for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and 2nd runner up for the Quality-of-Life award, for her work with her personal platform B.F.F. (Be friends first) promoting healthy relationship education from K-12 students.
 
In her free time, she enjoys visiting local new England wineries with her dog Bear, hosting family and friends for dinner, and volunteering as an executive board member for the Izzy Foundation."

Jessica Marfeo

Mia Daley is a  junior at La Salle Academy and has always had a passion for the performing arts and Community Outreach. Mia is also very honored to be your current Miss RI teen 2023. Mia got involved in the Miss Rhode Island teen organization in 2020 when she was only 13 years old and has truly grown up with this organization, and has grown up on stage. Today she has been involved in 65 theatrical and on stage productions. Some of her favorite onstage roles include Winnie Foster in Tuck Everlasting, Bea in Something Rotten and And Lisa and Mamma Mia. Not only does Mia have a strong passion for the stage but she has a passion for the community and community outreach. Mia has almost 300 hours of community service, and in the last 3 years has worked with 3 different non-profit organizations. Mia was also on the Glimmer of Hope Jr Board making this event extra special for her!

Mia Daley

Arabella had gotten diagnosed at just 1 year old and 3 months , during that 2 year treatment and that first month quarantined in the hospital had been the toughest time not only for arabella but for me and her father as well. But she shined right through with her extremely outgoing spontaneous tremendously strong spirit and now about a year later with no chemo or port she’s living an amazing beautiful happy cancer free life as any child should. Anywhere she goes she shines through and makes everybody around her crack a smile Wether she’s saying hi to them or just being her goofy self. She’s amazing and I cannot wait to see what she brings to this world!

Arabella Maxcy

Alyssa is a kindergartener who was first diagnosed with stage IV metastatic wilms tumor just days before her 5th birthday. She’s in remission.

Alyssa Dos Santos

Jane “Bridget” Vinard

Selena was diagnosed with retinoblastoma at 15 months old. We brought her in to an ophthalmologist as she has a lazy eye. To our surprise, she was diagnosed with stage E retinoblastoma. The most advanced stage. She never showed any other signs besides a lazy eye and we had no history of retinoblastoma either. We were the given the difficult choice to either enucleate her eye or attempt chemo on her eye to try to save her eye. However, the chances of it working were almost zero. We made the difficult decision to enucleate her eye and we are thankful we did because it had spread to her optic nerve. She had to receive six rounds of chemo after and is currently in remission. And although she wears a prosthetic eye today, you wouldn’t even know. Selena is incredibly bright and continues to make us proud every single day.

Selena Lopez

"Mia is 7 years old and the younger sister to her brother Aiden, who is 12 years old, and her sister Hannah, who is 10 years old. She loves to cook, create art and crafts projects, dance, and most of all, loves those around her with all her heart!
Mia was diagnosed with B-Cell ALL at age 4, and spent one month living at Boston Children’s Hospital. She got to go home just before she turned 5, received outpatient treatment at the Jimmy Fund Clinic at Dana Farber in Boston. She received her last chemo on 5/18/23, just 2 days before she turned 7. 
With the busy treatment schedule, and its harshness, Mia missed most of her kindergarten school year and much of 1st grade. She loves to be active and literally wants to be involved in everything. She loves to share her story, was the face of Stop & Shop's Cure Childhood Cancer campaign, and is a patient partner for numerous fundraising efforts for Boston Children's Hospital and Dana Farber. She is in Girl Scouts and collected over 200 boxes of Girl Scout cookies to bring into clinic to distribute to the doctors, nurses, staff, and families. For her end of treatment, she collected pajamas and band aids to donate to the Boston Children's Hospital.
 She is about to start 2nd grade and is so excited!"

Mia Lee

Julia was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma on February 3, 2023 with no symptoms.  She is being treated at Hasbro and Memorial Sloan Kettering.  She has had 6 rounds of chemo, a 14 hour surgery and is going into the next phase of treatment, immunotherapy and radiation.

Julia Duggan

Maddison is a spunky little girl once she gets the shyness of first meeting you. Shortly after losing her great grandmother to cancer Maddison had gotten sick. While at first we thought if was just a common cold or at the worst possible covid 1o witch was just spending big at that time. We where in the country wide shut down and Mt navy was sick. She had gotten worse so we decided to take her to the er at hasbro. When we arrived Maddison was unable to walk so the kind velvet workwe went to get her a wheelchair. When we entered the er they to one look at Maddison and check is right in. Still not knowing what was wrong with her. We went from the er to icu it was there that was I brought out my daughters room to be told what was going on. I was told the news no parent would ever want to here. My baby girl had leukemia. Everything stopped o could believe what o was hearing and because of covid I did not have her father there with me. After 2 days on the icu and lots of blood transfusions they moved Maddison up the the 5th floor which became like our second home for the next 28 days while we were inpatient stating her treatment. It hasn't always been easy as I'm sure many understand. Hasbro and the team there as well as everyone at the Tomorrow Fund clinic have been there for us 100% of the way as well as many many other organizations like glimmer of hope and so many more. It is because of all the support from everyone that helped Maddison. And our family though this time. We are happy to say Maddison is still in remission and in November will be one year off.chemo !!! She is turning into a sassy happy young lady and loves everything girly.

Maddison Brown

Annabella is a loving and caring 11yr old, who wants to heal the hearts of the broken and sad. She is always the one to lift the spirit of those around her, with her funny jokes and dances. She loves animals, but most of all her best friend Tyson out dog, who stayed close to her throughout her recovery and cancer journey and kept her going like no else could. She loves playing basketball and is not afraid to show her skills to the boys, or better yet out play them at times.🤣 She believes a girl can do anything a boy can and sometimes even better, because girls have the beauty and the brains. She rang her bell and beat her cancer, because nothing could stop her! Even while in treatment and in pain, she never slowed down, she kept my spirits up on days even I felt defeated. She never let me quit or stop for a moment, even in pain and not being able to stand or walk, she pulled up a chair and still helped with the cooking and chopping up veggies on her lap with her makeshift table. Although there was a time she couldn't walk from being in so much pain, she went online and found herself a wagon she insisted on me purchasing, and yes I was pulling her around everywhere in her wagon, until she received her wheelchair, because she couldn't wait around on a wheelchair, she had to keep going no matter what💪 She is a true inspiration and such a loving and caring child all in one little human being. She gave away her gifts at the hospital to other kids on her floor because she felt bad they had cancer, like she wasn't one of those same sick children battling cancer too. The stay at the hospital will be something we will never forget, the hospital staff from the nurses to the doctor's, to the housekeeping and food service workers all gained a special relationship with her and her with all of them as well. She wants to grow up and one day bring happiness to the hospital for other children battling cancer, by dressing up in costumes from Santa, to the Easter Bunny and all cartoon characters in between, she wants to someday bring the kids joy and laughter, oh and can't forget slime! Lots of slime making supplies, because apparently that's something there wasn't much of, and she plans to make it happen in her future when she gets older. She wants to bring them comfort, joy and laughter and memories, that over power the pain, and treatments, the fear and worry. She is truly my inspiration and is the reason I keep going, because she won't stop, so I can't stop either.

Annabella Duncan

Queenie Qi American born Chinese, speaks Chinese, English. A hobby; Piano, violin, singing, dancing, skills; Soccer, swimming, figure skating. Won the 2022 Miss East Coast 6 year old division champion, big and small competitions, has won 16 titles

Queenie Qi

Laila is my beautiful young lady who is a upcoming sophomore at saint Mary's Bayview academy, where she a honor roll student in her ap honors classes.She loves art and musical theatre. On June 1 2023 Laila went for a routine physical, by noon the next day she was diagnosed with leukemia and was impatient for 31 days. She currently under treatment through the tomorrow fund.

Laila Sarkis

Kinsley Rae Stadler

Josie was diagnosed with a Stage 3 Wilms’ Tumor on December 20, 2015 when she was just 21 months old. On December 23rd, Josie endured an 8 hour long surgery at Boston Children’s Hospital to remove the softball sized tumor and her left kidney. Two weeks later, Josie started her treatment plan involving radiation and 8 months of chemotherapy. She initially received treatment at the Jimmy Fund Clinic and then transferrred to The Tomorrow Fund Clinic to be closer to her home in southern Rhode Island and her 7 month old brother, Dominic. 
Josie has been cancer free for 8 years and although she doesn’t remember her journey, she has a large scar across her abdomen to remind her she is a survivor!

Josephine (Josie) DeSimone

Cianna Chloé aka CC is a 12 yr old who was diagnosed with High Grade Telangiectatic OsteoSarcoma (Bone Cancer) at the age of 5 on July 13, 2017. It was found after months of bringing her to the Drs and Urgent care for pain! Mom knew something wasnt right and that bone growth shouldn't hurt every day and night as in CCs case! Once diagnosed she endured 18 rounds of chemo and a 19hour Limb Salvation Surgery. Despite chemo and the many side effects, she was such a happy-go-lucky dancing in her hospital room every moment she could type of girl! 

Currently she just made 5 years Cancer Free in July 2023! Her journey is still very long, as we're in the process of trying to get knee range of motion back 5 years later. Also the summer of 2024, she will have her first Limb Lengthening surgery to help alleviate her Limb discrepancy. As well as the need for such a high shoe lift on her sneakers. 

Beating Cancer was hard, living with the side effects is even harder. Trying to not be the center of attention in a room filled with staring eyes with many questions...as a pre-teen is a struggle. That is why she recently was mentored by a Model Ms.Hartje, through A Free Bird organization in hopes to enter the world of Adaptive Modeling! She dreams to be an inspiration to other kids with Cancer whom also struggle with their image, and Limb difference or Limb Loss. You too are Perfect just like ME!

Cianna Tunstall

Faith was sick for a year before she developed cancer. She had frequent infections and lots of discomfort. 
In December she couldn’t recover from whatever virus made us all sick. She stayed sick. 
After many doctors appointments hospital and urgent care visits I told them I needed answers. Finally she got some blood test and the next day we found out she had cancer and the following day we got the diagnoses. We spent almost two months in the hospital the during the induction phase and she didn’t make it to remission and her treatment changed to high risk. 
She lost her ability to walk for over a month and we’re just now in DI 1 and she is walking again. She has a lot of pain in her hips and legs, we ice them every night. She’s still her silly playful self and I am so grateful that she is. She’s so strong and resilient despite her pains and discomforts. She’s a brace little girl.

Faith Beatriz Santiago

Sofia was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on July 22nd, 2022. Sofia had been experiencing high fevers, fatigue, shaking, and loss of appetite prior to her diagnosis. She started chemo immediately following her port surgery. Once treatment started her appetite came back and was more energetic. Unfortunately, a month after her initial diagnosis we were informed that Sofia had some residual cancer cells and was placed in the higher risk group for ALL. She was started on a more aggressive chemo regimen to attack the cells head on. Sofia reached the maintenance stage this past summer and is in her final year of treatment. We are truly thankful for the Hasbro oncology team, the Tomorrow Fund and Izzy foundation for all their help and support throughout this difficult journey.  Sofia has had some setbacks and multiple hospital stays but she has persevered through all of it. She has remained her sweet, sassy, and free spirited self. She always lights up the room and has such an infectious energy that you can't help but feel the same. In her free time, Sofia loves to make crafts, whether it is painting, making slime, or putting together a dreamcatcher! Sofia was able to start school this year and has loved every minute

Sofia Skipworth

Alma Tavares was diagnosed on February 2023 with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at 5 years old.
Alma is on her eighth month of treatment and she is doing really well . She likes to sing, dance and play with her cousins and neighbors .

Alma Tavares

It was June 2, 2022, that we first went to Hasbro. Izzy had swollen glands and a runny nose, but no other signs. I thought it was her allergies, she gets them so bad at times. After a few tests were completed and results came back, we were sent home. Right away I made an appointment with her primary care and saw him on June 3,2022.  
On June 6, 2022, Monday afternoon, I received a call from Izzy school nurse, Izzy was having a hard time breathing. We rushed right back into Hasbro! They looked at the previous records and noticed she was just in the hospital on Thursday June 2. The doctors on duty said we are going to run some more blood work and have her go in for a CT scan. I helped her lay on the bed of the CT scan, they placed me in the corner, and they started to run the scan. Once we were back in room 2. Izzy was smiling, laughing, and being her lovely self. As I internally was breaking apart waiting for the results, just praying. While all this was happening, our phones were beeping like crazy. It was a little after 9pm on June 6 when the doctors came into the room and that’s when we heard “Izzy has Cancer”!!!!  Izzy and I locked our eyes, and she broke into tears. She asked if she was going to be, OK? I could not talk, it was devasting to hear, My Baby has Cancer! We were sent up to Children 5 where she was checked in. The very next day Izzy went in for surgery to insert her port. We met with the team of DRs, and they went over the treatment plan. 
The next morning, Izzy asked me to lay down with her and we fell asleep. A few hours in, we woke up, Izzy and I looked at each other and I said to her, we got this!  I got myself together, started reading all the documents, the binder with all the information they provided of how Izzy treatment plan was going to be and started making notes. We stayed in Hasbro for a month.
It was July 5th that she was able to go home. We kept it a secret and surprised her dance team on Thursday July 7th during production practice. It was GREAT! They screamed with tears of joy. 
During all of this, we have learned a lot. Izzy is so strong, so courageous, and the personality she projects out to others is amazing. We focus on staying positive. Soon,  Izzy will help someone thru their struggle with Cancer and Izzy experience will help them get through their tough times.
Forever Mom & Daughter Strong!

Izabelle Major

Amelia Bernard

In 2003, when I was 10 years old, I received a devastating diagnosis: pre-B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, a highly aggressive childhood blood cancer. This diagnosis was accompanied by symptoms such as high fevers, limping, bruising, and fatigue. My treatment journey was a demanding and traumatic experience, marked by a close encounter with death, a month-long coma, a debilitating stroke, and a year-long process of relearning fundamental skills. Simultaneously, I underwent 15 different types of chemotherapy and underwent numerous medical procedures.

However, I managed to persevere and thrive with the unwavering support of therapists, medical professionals, my family, and my faith. By 2006, I believed that I had overcome the worst of the battle. Yet, at the age of 13, the cancer returned. The symptoms included blurred vision in my right eye, which turned out to be a tumor, and a relapse in my central nervous system. This led to a renewed struggle, involving more chemotherapy and radiation treatments. I held onto the belief that if I had triumphed once before, I could do it again.

In 2008, at the age of 15, I celebrated the completion of my second cancer treatment, a day filled with immense joy. Despite enduring five years of hospital visits and medical challenges, I was declared "cancer-free." However, for survivors like me, this meant navigating potential late effects. In 2019, at the age of 26, eleven years after my treatment finished, I was diagnosed with Epilepsy due to my past history of childhood cancer. Yet, I didn’t let this barrier stop me from living my day to day life and pursuing my life goals and aspirations. Inspired by my resilience and life's adversities, I founded BeholdBeGold, a platform dedicated to raising awareness about the lasting impacts of childhood cancer. Survivorship may bring obstacles, but we remain resilient, alive, and grateful, a platform where we survivors can share our inspirational and motivational stories with the world. To join our message of hope, please visit beholdbegold.org.

Juanita Prada

"In 2010 I was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. My treatment was only 4 months long with chemotherapy. I say “only” because the hardest part of my cancer journey was surviving. Treatment was 4 months. But struggling and navigating my new normal was 4 years or more. 
At the start of my diagnosis and beginning of treatment I said cancer wouldn’t affect my life. But little did I know, I had no control over that. I lost my hair, gained weight from the steroids, my joints were achy making dancing difficult, I was irritable and felt sick 50% of the time. I still went to school most of the time except for the days I was at treatment or stayed home to rest. Even tired and feeling a little nauseous, I would force myself to get to school. I was determined to stay “normal”. However that just didn’t happen. A couple months after turning 16 I was del seed cancer free. 
During this time of surviving I was positive on one thing. That I wanted to help the children and teens still fighting their own battle with cancer. A few months after treatment was over, I started a nonprofit called Forever Fighters. We provide personalized care packages and support to children and teen cancer patients. The idea behind it is “we are forever fighting”. We fight to beat cancer then we fight to survive and live life to the fullest. I won my fight with cancer so I could continue fighting for all the children and teen cancer patients and survivors."

Mckenzi Fish

My name is Cristina, I am 18 years old, and 12 years NED! I am a biochemistry major at Stonehill College studying to, hopefully, be a pediatric general surgeon. And here is my story: 
On March 1, 2011 I was diagnosed with a rare form of kidney cancer, called a Wilm’s tumor, and from that day forward I knew my life would never be the same. At the time I was only 6 and didn’t really know what the doctors meant by the word “cancer”, I had never heard of that word before, and being told that I had cancer was not something that I ever expected to ever hear, let alone at age 6. That day my life changed; what used to be a normal life and a normal day of school and playdates and hanging with friends, quickly turned into a very dark and depressing world and place to be. 
My surgeon originally thought that he would be able to wait until the end of the week to perform my surgery, but with more extensive scans that was not the case. The following day I had my surgery, what was supposed to be 4-6 hours ended up being over 12 hours. After surgery I spent roughly 2 weeks in the hospital. Hasbro Children’s Hospital had now become my second home, and sometimes I would spend more time there than my own home with my family and friends. I went through 10 rounds of radiation and 26 rounds of chemotherapy. It was both physically and mentally draining and trying. Finally on September 15, 2011 I was declared NED and had my last round of chemo. I was never a normal kid, I was always different in other ways, but the day I was diagnosed was definitely the day that really showed that I’m different, but I am also strong and I am stronger than most kids my age.

Cristina Tortolano

I was diagnosed in 2012 with early stage Breast Cancer and with Metastatic Breast Cancer in 2016 three months after I got married. I have not let this diagnosis bring me down and I have raised money for various cancer organizations, most recently for the Dana Farber Cancer Center Boston Marathon team. I love crafting handmade items and make custom tumblers for family and friends. I also donate tumblers for charities for them to raise money with. I recently started running to deal with the physical and psychological effects of constant and continuous treatment. I have a goal of a half marathon.

Katy Bell

I was diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer at my very first mammogram at age 40. I also found out I am BRCA2. I have had 9 surgeries, 18 weeks of chemo and 16 days of radiation. I share my story to encourage women to get their mammograms.

Alyssa Iadarola

I was diagnosed December 31, 2020 at the age of 31. I had just lost my mom to breast cancer 9 months prior. I was a mom to a 4 and 8 year old , working and going for masters degree. I underwent a double mastectomy, chemo and reconstruction surgery. I am currently still taking hormone blockers and will be for the next 5 years.

Andreana Amaral

I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer while 32 weeks pregnant at the age if 39 in 2017. I am currently still on treatments. I have cancer in by back,rubs and liver.

Marlena Brady

My name is Sandra Ann skippar -broome I was born in Stoughton Massachusetts to Irene & Stephen. Skippar . I have an older brother Joseph Skippar . In 2009 my dad came into my dreams one night and told me I had to have a double mastectomy right away. It couldn't wait till the following year. I woke up pinching myself and convinced my doctors to do a double mastectomy. Two weeks later, I would be diagnosed with three different types of breast cancers: invasive lobular carcinoma, extensive ductal carcinoma in situ, and lobular carcinoma in situ a rare tumor cells. I was in shock, my jaw dropped, I couldn't believe my ears. If it wasn't for my dad aka my Angel I wouldn't be here today. He saved my life!

In 2009 at the end of the day I have my beautiful family, aunts, uncles, cousins, sisters, and friends. I am blessed with my new pink sister and best support team a girl could ever ask for. I am a fun and very loving, caring, bubbly outgoing person who loves ziplining, outdoor adventures, alligators, great white sharks and the beach. I iespecially love the sound of the waves and walking on the beach. I feel it heals the soul. I never thought my world could be turned upside down in a flash and the fight of my life would begins. Life is no longer normal. 

Now I’m on a voyage, this ship called Cancer. I lost my mom January 18, 2019. The voyage without my mom was going to be unimaginable. We talked to her 20 times a each day, She was not only my mom, she was my best friend. I feel lost without her. I felt like my ship was being tossed about the sea in a hurricane. My compass was spinning out of control. Still till this day I go to call her knowing she won't be answering. My ship was sinking, but the voyage must continue. I still feel like the clouds are clashing together in this storm called life .

Sandra  Broome

a productive woman in my thirties I am now faced with some serious health challenges. I was diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.  I chose to have a lumpectomy and I am currently awaiting chemotherapy and radiation to cure my cancer. I know this part of my life will not be an easy road to travel but I have to be optimistic and hopefully become cancer free.  I have found the strength and courage to conquer this by the power of prayers.  I sit by myself and often think why has god given me this to handle?  My thought is god only gives us what we can handle.  I must be strong enough to rise above this devastating life change as I have done in the past.
Eight years had passed since being diagnosed with breast cancer. I routinely went for mammograms and they continued to be clear.  Summer 2019 on yearly mammogram radiologists saw a very tiny change.  Doctors confirmed invasive breast cancer in the opposite breast.  I felt like I was standing in the middle of an ocean. The water was freezing and the sand was sucking my feet, swooping me underwater.  Unable to breathe for a brief moment and thinking how can I go through this again.
                My second cancer journey my mindset was different.  I was confident that I had a cancer team full of knowledgeable, kind, caring and compassionate doctors and nurses who would save my life.  My surgeon Dr. Cutitar made my plan. I had a lumpectomy and a few lymph nodes removed. Next,  a port catheter was placed and ready for chemotherapy.  Dr Strenger decided which meds will work best and I had three months of chemo. As a woman in my late forties I wasn’t as vain. Bald is beautiful, was my attitude.  Then came dreaded radiation burns for 8 weeks. Fortunately, when the pandemic happened I was half way through radiation.  Lastly, I was told I should take Aromatase Inhibitors anastrozole. I made a choice and refused that treatment.  
                 
                  Today I am a mature woman in my 50’s and I am thankful for the wonderful life I have.  When I was first diagnosed with cancer I thought my life over my worst fate happened.  A million things race through your head and fear takes the wheel.  During that time it’s hard to find sunshine, a small ray of light that guides you to peace.  Cancer gave me the opportunity to build wonderful memories and make beautiful friendships that I otherwise wouldn’t have. My experience has taught me to savor every minute.  I now embrace all of life’s embarrassing mishap moments

Sandra Christianson

I was diagnosed w/Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the left breast w/3 tumors in my lymphnodes a ge 42. I'm now 46 and March of 2024 will be 4yrs cancer free

Keri McWilliams

May 25th 2022 my father passed away and 3 weeks later I was diagnosed with 2 breast cancer tumors. My family was dealing with it all and supported me through chemo that started in July. I had a single mastectomy in December and one week later was back in the hospital with multiple pulmonary embolisms. My Doctor told me I was lucky to be alive.

After recovering from my embolisms I realized I was lucky and my mind shifted to what I needed to do next, I subsequently had to have 19 lymph nodes removed as the cancer had spread. Recovering was a challenge as at the time my son was playing his Junior year of lacrosse at high school and I did not want to miss any of it.  

I am in radiation right now and if all goes well I will have reconstruction in April or May. I have faith I will beat this cancer.

Alison Bruck

My name is Audrey Walsh-Pouliot.  I was born premature to Phyllis and Dennis Walsh in November of 1966. I was only 3 pounds when i came home with my parents. They had no idea if i were to survive.  At the age of eight I was diagnosed with scoliosis and had to wear a back brace.  When I turned twelve i lost my dad to an illness and then had to hav the first of my spine surgeries. 
As an adult i married and had two children. I was a school bus driver for twenty years. In 2010 on Good Friday I was diagnosed with cancer, which was a real blow to our Easter holiday.  I went through a lumpectomy within two weeks of being diagnosed. I then had a second surgery because of unclear markers. I then had an infection that needed to have a wound-vac to help it close.  Radiation soon followed as well as chemo to kill all the possible cancer cells. I am happy to say that i am in remission.

Audrey Walsh

In February 2010 I heard the words you have cancer. Just when you think it can’t happen to you, it does.  It started at my yearly OB-Gyn visit when my gynecologist did my breast exam and found a lump.  At that point I knew nothing good was going to come out of this. I went to see my breast surgeon who confirmed that I had breast cancer, it was instant tears.  Then the nightmare began with tests, biopsies, everything was moving so fast.  Once the biopsy was done, they found that I had an aggressive type of cancer that they needed to treat aggressively.  It was the hardest 9 months of my life between aggressive chemo, losing my hair, blood transfusions, surgery and then weeks of radiation but I survived it all.  Then breast cancer hit me two more times, but I kicked its ass again and again.  

I was trying to be strong especially for my son but instead I was scared to death because I did not want to die.  I was only 37, my son was 5 and I wanted to be around to see him grow up and watch all the milestones that he would go through.   I worked every day through treatments with the exception of chemo day.  I had to do this for me because I knew if I stopped working and just sat home, I would just decline and get depressed.   I was exhausted but it's a different kind of tired, not tired because you worked all day, but the kind of tired from poison being shot into your body every week that was just kicking your ass.   

My son was the motivation that kept me moving forward and my husband not only got me through my cancer journeys but through every challenge that came our way. Throughout all the times of having cancer there were times that I would just cry and want to give up.  My emotions were all over the place, from being in shock, being scared, to being in denial.  My husband would remind me that we have a son who needs his mom, and he is the reason why I couldn’t give up and needed to fight to stay on this earth. That was enough for me to push myself to get through what I needed to get through.     

I am stronger than I thought I was.  I am not looking at it as my bucket is always full but more towards being that Superwoman.  I have been faced with many challenges over the years from health challenges to parent challenges and found that I am fighter, I am strong and there is nothing that I can’t overcome.

Eileen Cairo

I was diagnosed with stage 2 aggressive cancer in 2022. Finding out I had cancer was one of the few times I have questioned God in my life. My faith has always been the rock on which I always stood. So when I  heard “you have cancer”, there was a flood of emotions when I  suddenly faced my mortality.  I wondered why God allowed this to happen to me?   

After taking the time to let the noise and chaos settle….I had my mental emotional wrestling match with God until a strange peace came over me. My thoughts turned around and became why NOT me?   A truth was spoken over me that God must trust me enough to carry this out so I knew I had to trust Him  to equip me with everything I need.  

It’s been a long 16+ months of treatments (chemo, partial mastectomy, daily radiation and another 10 months of chemo) … but I am coming out on the other side with my faith (and my body/mind) stronger than ever before.

Michelle Lyon

On July 22, 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, I was 42 years old and told I had cancer.  Within a few days I was back in the oncologist's office to have additional testing.  Once my results came back, my oncologist told me that I had stage two, grade two, triple negative invasive ductal breast cancer in my left breast.  My tumor was 11cm and my genetics came back negative.  I was told that triple negative breast cancer was so invasive that I needed to start treatment within the next few weeks.  I had port surgery on August 12, and started chemotherapy treatments right away in order to shrink the tumor first.  On August 18th I began a 12-week regiment of Paclitaxel & Carboplatin (CT) chemotherapy infusions, followed by 4 biweekly dose dense Adriamycin & Cyclophosphamide (AC) also known as "Red Devil" chemotherapy treatments. This chemotherapy treatment was difficult, and I was admitted into the hospital twice, during that time I had two blood transfusions and was also diagnosed with Chron's disease.  I finally completed the first stage of my treatment in January 2021, and I was scheduled for surgery 6 weeks later.  At the end of February, a week before I turned 43, I had a lumpectomy with 7 lymph nodes removed.  On April 23, 2021, after having 25 radiation treatments I received a certificate of completion by my Radiologist. Due to concerns with swelling & pain in my left arm and side, I was referred to a lymphatic massage therapist who I still see to this day.  
I am now almost three years out and thriving.  My hair has grown back, my mobility has improved, I am able to exercise and went back to work.  I even decided to go back to school to complete my bachelor's degree in business administration and healthcare management. I appreciate life, my family, my friends and enjoy each and every day I have. I am so grateful to be here and although I went through such a difficult time, I have learned that self-care is extremely important. My body, mind and spirit were pushed to its limits, but I pushed back and won!

Wendy Turillo

My name is Renee’. I was diagnosed with DCIS in 2015. I had a lumpectomy and radiation in one breast. During a routine exam in 2020,  it was discovered the cancer had returned, around the same area. During the Covid pandemic, I had surgery.  The feeling of going though a traumatic event, alone, is scary and sad. 
I had my unilateral mastectomy. I had reconstruction surgery in December 2023. I have grown to love the body I have instead of wishing for the body I had. I realize I can not change what happened. But, I can change the way I look at it. I am grateful for what I have because I know it could be worse.

Renee Vargas

In May 2019 I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer Stage 2A.  My diagnosis came at a time where I was still grieving the loss of my father and right before my youngest son's first birthday.  When I heard the words "you have breast cancer" my world stopped, everything was in slow motion and began tumbling down around me.  I had no idea all the different sub-types of breast cancer; I just thought breast cancer was breast cancer.  Once I learned that the type I was diagnosed with was very serious and not many options for treatment; I threw myself into researching everything I could.  

I have always leaned towards holistic/natural remedies but knew with this type of breast cancer I could not risk using only that for healing.  I moved forward with integrative medicine.  I included a conventional oncologist as well as a holistic oncologist on my team of doctors.  I pushed all the fear out of my decision making; I based all my decisions on my overall survival rather than fear.  I removed the idea of fighting cancer.  Cancer is me, it is part of my body and if I was fighting cancer then I was fighting myself.  I held onto my faith and decided my goal was to heal my body from the inside out. 

November 2023 is 4 years cancer free.  To say I am blessed doesn't quite express what that means or how important this is.  Many women with triple negative have recurrence within the first year or two.  My oncologist told me if I can make it to 4 years that will be a good sign. I continue to be grateful for each day.  There are many struggles that no one ever warns you about; I call it the "aftermath" of cancer but I don't let it bring me down.   I am living my best life, creating memories and experiencing adventures.  I thank God, my family and my amazing friends who are always with me.

Kara DeMorro

Tristy was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma Breast Cancer in June of 2022 at the age of 43. She has underwent a double mastectomy, 25 sessions of radiation, and has started the breast reconstruction process and hormone therapy. 

Since being diagnosed, Tristy has participated in the LIVESTRONG Program at her local YMCA as well as many programs offered by the Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Resource Foundation. Tristy was a part of Gloria Gemma’s SheRose Class of 2023 where 31 women bonded throughout their cancer healing journeys. 

Tristy enjoys the Rhode Island shoreline and is a URI Master Gardner. She and her son live in South County.

Tristy Conte

Jenna Steele

I was diagnosed at 46 during a routine mammogram, with clusters in two areas of my breast. I was one of the lucky ones.

Kelly Rawnsley

In August 2018 I lost my father to a heart attack, months later in May 2019 I was being diagnosed with Triple Negative Stage 2A. I was diagnosed weeks before my youngest son turned one years old.  I originally thought the lump I felt was due to nursing so I initially ignored it.  Something kept pulling my attention to the lump to the point  I could no longer ignore and decided to get examined.  They had me go for an ultra sound and then a biopsy.  I had not heard from my doctor all week on the results so I figured "no news is good news".  I called my doctors office only to find the biopsy did in fact come back cancerous.  I chose to treat conventionally and holistically.  I decided early on to make all my decisions based on my overall survival rather than fear.  I do not regret my decisions. This November I will be celebrating 4 years cancer free, which is a huge feat for my type of cancer.  Many unfortunately do not have that same response.  I am living my best life with no regrets.  I acknowledge every day is a blessing and I am so very grateful.

I grew up in an underserved community with immigrant parents from South America. My parents were factory workers. I am a first generation US citizen. My mother spoke Spanish to us and my father spoke English to us so English and Spanish were both my first languages. I have an older sister and younger brother. Growing up, there were times my parents struggled and I knew I did not want that for myself. I have worked since I was a teenager.  I obtained my Associates in Radiologic Technology. At 22, I had a great paying job. In my mid 30’s I had a career change and became a registered nurse. 
In the midst of finishing up nursing school, I met my husband during a spin class. I worked full time as a Registered Nurse in an Intermediate Care Unit. I was occupied with learning to juggle motherhood with a 10-month-old boy. My husband and I were also embracing the idea of having another child; however, we would have to start sooner than later since my first child was conceived through IVF. 
In June of 2019, my doctor called me to tell me I had Invasive Cell Carcinoma in my left breast. I had no questions for the doctor, like they say “ignorance is bliss”. I knew what was coming my way. Twenty rounds of chemo, hair loss, a unilateral mastectomy, numerous surgeries- one ending up with a failed expander, and 36 radiation treatments. Needless to say, it was not easy time. During this time, the whole world was living in fear - COVID. My world became lonelier. Due to the pandemic I finished my treatment alone. However, a few months before the world shut down I had the pleasure of meeting many young survivors through on of the activities held by Gloria Gemma Breast Cancer Foundation.  I was able to establish a relationship with some of them and we still remain close friends. They are my sisters, my pink sisters.

Elizabeth Diaz

The 24-year-old was recently crowned Miss Denver and will vie for the Miss Colorado crown in coming months. But it’s the work done off the stage that Melachrinoudis is the most proud of.

‘I want to cure cancer’
As part of her community service initiative, she’s helped tens of thousands of people register for the National Marrow Donor Program. And 24 of these people have gone on to save the life of someone fighting cancer, according to Melachrinoudis. 

“It wasn’t something that could have helped my parents,” she said. “But it has helped 24 other families like mine get that happy ending that mine didn’t get.”

Elizabeth Melachrinoudis

Hiii, my name is Manuela and I am based near Boston, Ma. I believe that every wedding is unique and deserves to be captured in a way that reflects the couple's individuality and style. That's why I take the time to get to know my clients on a personal level, so I can create images that truly represent who they are as a couple.

Manuela Mejia Correa

Gary "Batman" Balletto

Frank Picozzi

Katie Sullivan is an undergraduate and Master's graduate of URI. She is currently a teacher at Burrillville Public Schools and will be walking in honor of her mom, Tina Sullivan, who battled Glioblastoma.

Katie Sullivan

Raelyn Augusto

Jaelynn was a very active nine year old little girl. Horseback riding, Soccer , Rec and a Travel softball team! Playdates with friends and cousin sleepovers, just enjoying life as a nine year old should.  Towards the end of sports season she started to get tired, her happiness and love for sports and visiting the barn was being pushed out and overtaken by alot of " Im tired " and " I just don't feel goods".  She ended up dropping out of soccer with two weeks remaining, stopped visiting the horses at the barn but was sticking with softball with very little energy. After a string of fevers, some lasting 11 days at a time she felt a little better and went to a sleepover at her best friends house. The next morning we picked her up and went to breakfast with her grandparents. She was incredibly pale, almost grey and didn't touch her food.  Her dad and I decided something was definatly going on and i made her an appt for the next day. We had been to the doctor previously that month for the fevers but because she had a cough we were told it was a virus and to let it run its course. This time we pushed for lab work. Within 25 minutes of us leaving the doctors office I received a call from her doctor asking me to please pull over if i could. She sent us straight to hasbro mentioning leukemia or multiple viruses at once but that she needed to be rechecked asap. At that point, Jaelynn and I both knew it was serious and that is when her journey with leukemia began, She was diagnosed 10/23/23 with B cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
        She was hospitalized from 10/23/23 until 11/22/23, the night before Thanksgiving. We made it home for the holiday and were finally all together. Over the next few weeks we started our Clinic appointments she had good days and bad. On 12/14 We were told that Jaelynn was in REMISSION! 
     We had another in patient hosptial stay from 12/21-12/25. We made it home Christmas morning just in time to open presents with her sister! She even got to spend New years eve with her bestfriend Keegan. Weve been home alot since then trying to stay healthy with the exception of our photo shoot with GLIMMER OF HOPE FOUNDATION and it was absolutely amazing!  Jaelynn felt so beautiful... and continues to stay optimistic through all of her treatments.

Jaelynn Deschamps

Lola Paolissi

Emma Ali

Emerson Lucier

Aubrie Merchant

Dayna Poloski is a Registered Nurse in the Tomorrow Fund Clinic. Dayna is a 1996 graduate from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Dayna has over 28 years of experience at Rhode Island Hospital. She has been a staff nurse on Hasbro 5 and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit before finding her home in the Tomorrow Fund Clinic for the past 13 years.

Dayna Poloski

I am a pediatric oncology nurse at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. I have been working there for a little over 4 years. I have the honor of taking care of some of the best kiddos as well as their families. Working with these families, I get to form life long relationships and be by their sides through the good times and the bad. 

Aside from work I love to spend quality time relaxing with my two favorite boys, my dog Reuben and boyfriend Mike as well as going to Pilates. I also love coffee, hot cocoa, and snacking!

Lily Mercer

I have been a pediatric oncology nurse for 4 years at Hasbro children’s hospital. I take care of children, as well as their families during the most difficult time of their lives. I love bonding with the children and families that I care for and make lifelong relationships. On my days off I love going to Pilates, spending time with my nieces, doing crafts and artwork, and hanging with my cats!

Allie Dreyer

Hello! My name is Tatiana and I have been a registered nurse at Hasbro Children’s Hospital for the past 4 years. I have had the pleasure of working on the 5th floor as a hematology/oncology nurse where I have met some of the bravest children and families. Being able to care for these children and their families is a blessing. I am currently in school to become a Family Nurse Practitioner with plans to finish this coming August. I hope to continue to make a difference in the lives of my patients because they have certainly made a difference in mine. 
One of my biggest passions growing up included soccer and in my time off you can find me on the field. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family, friends, and my dogs Rhody and Leo! Also, something not many people know about me is I have actually walked the stage before for Miss. Day of Portugal which handed me many great memories and opportunities! I am so excited to be a part of today and stand next to these amazing women!

Tatiana Mobrice

Ashley Iaconetti Haibon is a TV personality most known for her appearances on The Bachelor franchise on which she met her husband, Jared Haibon. Ashley has been a guest on Good Morning America, The Ellen DeGenerous Show, and Jimmy Kimmel Live. She is a host for both the The Almost Famous podcast with iHeart Radio and The I Don't Get podcast. Ashley has worked as a corespondent for Access Hollywood, written for Cosmopolitan.com, and has done commercial work for ABC, Disney, and Netflix. Ashley has her Masters degree in Broadcast and Digital Journalism from Syracuse University's Newhouse School of Communication. Ashley and Jared own Audrey’s Coffee House and Lounge in South County Commons. The couple have a two-year-old son, Dawson, and another baby boy on the way. Ashley enjoys playing karaoke with Dawson and reenacting scenes from her favorite rom coms for her following of 1.2 million on Instagram.

Ashley Iaconetti

Aspen had AML-Ram Glis2 and underwent a bone marrow transplant. 8 months later she relapsed and took a compassionate use drug and had 5 donor lymphocyte infusions and she is now 2 years in remission!

Aspen Peck

Fundraisers

Make a difference for kids battling cancer.

Glimmer of Hope Foundation

Join us March 23rd 2024, 5-9 pm at the Rhodes on Pawtuxet in Cranston, Rhode Island for our First Annual… RUNWAY FOR A CURE ✨

Runway for a Cure is an event that shows child and adult cancer fighters and survivors their courageous, confidence, strength and beauty. We are partnering with local boutiques, local celebrities and community heroes to make this a show you won’t want to miss. Cocktail hour, raffles, auctions, live performances & more. 

We welcome 50+ cancer fighters and survivors from all around the country, while also honoring angels lost due to cancer.

Donate to a cancer survivor/fighter model through their peer to peer fundraising link 

- 100% of your donation will go towards our programs for helping kids battling cancer. Two models (one adult and one child) who have fundraised the most, will be recognized at the show and be able to make remarks. Help us hit our fundraising goal of $100,000!

Glimmer of Hope Foundation is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization that shows girls and boys their strength and beauty through the donation of bald dolls and provides HOPE to families battling childhood cancer.

Glimmer of Hope Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity (federal tax ID #851607457). All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowable by law.

 To make the world a less scary place for children battling cancer, we sponsor and donate dolls and bald dolls to better help children feel represented and confident during their journey.

A magical day for a group of girls battling cancer. The Best Day Ever features: hair and makeup services, a gift basket, a catered lunch, crafts, a princess dress and a doll in a matching princess dress, followed by a professional photoshoot at a magical location! 

 To help heal a broken heart, we have created bereavement boxes for families we have served after their child has passed. We partner with Spencer Welch Studios to send watercolor portraits of each child as part of each box.

Runway for a Cure 2024