Ellie May is a delightful little creature that we are blessed to call our daughter. She is a constant source of joy in our family. She's always ready with a silly face, or some joke that she's made up that makes no sense at all, but brings a chorus of laughter into our home. Her favorite thing is to see her family happy and enjoying life with one another. When Ellie was 2-1/2 years old we heard the words no parents ever want to hear. Because of her easy-going personality, and high pain tolerance, Ellie's cancer went undetected until it was quite advanced. Upon diagnosis she was admitted directly into pediatric intensive care. Thankfully, she remained there just a few days and was then transferred over to pediatric oncology. There she stayed for over a month during the first phase of treatment. Her treatment lasted 28 months in all. She spent over 4 months total inpatient, and countless hours in the clinic and undergoing medications at home as well. We lost count of how many blood transfusions she required to keep her alive. When I look at her I know I'm witnessing a miracle. She completed treatment in the spring of 2011. She has gone on to thrive. Thus far Ellie has been in the minority of patients. She is not dealing with any known long term effects... yet. We know that the odds are stacked against that happening, and even more against us as time goes on. We make the most of every moment and don't take that for granted. Right now Ellie enjoys playing with legos, animal figurines, is a voracious reader, and enjoys being on the swim team. It's because of researchers, doctors, nurses, and fundraisers like the ones here at St. Baldrick's that Ellie has this life to enjoy. There are so many more who need us!