In September 2025, just a couple of months before her second birthday, sweet Elise’s world and her family’s changed forever. What began as pain and swelling in her little leg quickly became a life-altering diagnosis: myeloid sarcoma / AML with a 1;22 translocation.

Since that day, Elise has faced more than most of us could ever imagine. She has bravely endured biopsies, scans, port placement, and multiple rounds of chemotherapy all before turning two. Yet through every appointment, every hospital stay, and every treatment plan, Elise continues to shine with a light that cannot be dimmed.

She is still the joyful little girl who loves Bluey, Minnie Mouse, princesses, and Peppa Pig. She loves to dance, to play, and most of all, to spend time with her big brother. Even in the midst of treatment, her laughter fills the room and reminds everyone around her what courage truly looks like.

Recently, her family received encouraging news her PET scan came back negative. While she continues treatment as planned to give her the very best chance at a full cure, this milestone is a powerful reminder of hope.

Elise’s journey shows us that strength does not depend on size. Sometimes, the mightiest heroes wear princess dresses, watch cartoons, and hold their brother’s hand.

And Elise is most certainly mighty.

What makes Elise mighty

Elise is mighty because, despite everything she has endured at such a tender age, she continues to smile, laugh, and love with her whole heart. While most little girls her age are just beginning to explore the world, Elise has already faced hospital halls, treatment rooms, and long days of care and she walks into each one with courage beyond her years.

She shows her strength in the bravest ways: stepping into the hospital without losing her spark, dancing through the living room as if nothing can slow her down, and finding pure joy in her favorite shows and sweet moments playing with her big brother.

Her resilience shines brightly. Her joy is contagious. And her spirit is truly unbreakable.

Elise reminds all of us that strength isn’t measured by size it’s measured by heart. And her heart is as mighty as they come.