Dragonflies and Daisies CSI

We just finished up our last meeting of the day! ✨

It has been such an incredible time learning, growing, and soaking up every moment of Work Weekend. I’m so grateful for everything this experience is teaching me.

Now it’s time to relax for a bit before we learn the opening number and all the other exciting things ahead! I can’t wait! 💃💫

Who’s ready to turn up the heat at our annual Torch Gala?!

Last year was record-breaking and this year, we’re raising the bar even higher as we illuminate hope for children battling rare cancers.

The 2026 Torch Gala will feature:
✨High-energy dueling pianos
✨Elegant black-tie glam
✨An unforgettable program
✨Exclusive live &silent auctions, bottle pull, blinky rings and more

Save the date
Saturday, February 28 7-11 p.m.
9 The Revelry North End

Every dollar raised fuels programs that are changing outcomes and saving lives.

Let’s light up the night and ignite change together!

While many of us celebrate Valentine’s Day and look forward to the upcoming holidays, there are children in hospitals who don’t get to fully experience those moments. Long stays, treatments, and being away from home can make the season feel especially hard.
This January through February, I’ll be collecting stuffed animals to donate to children in hospitals—small comforts that can bring big smiles. A teddy bear may seem simple, but it can help a child feel seen, loved, and a little less alone. If you’re able to donate, every stuffed animal can make a difference!

PLEASE READ BELOW!

Increased Government Investment in Childhood Cancer Research
Last year, at the request of Health and Human Services, Congress passed and allocated $50 million toward childhood cancer initiatives, focusing on advancing research and supporting treatment testing. This funding played a critical role in expanding clinical trials, improving early-stage therapies, and strengthening the scientific understanding of pediatric cancers—an area that has historically received less funding compared to adult oncology.
This year, that commitment has doubled to $100 million, representing a significant step forward. The expanded funding supports both clinical trials currently in testing phases and long-term research efforts, accelerating the development of safer, more effective treatments for children. This increase not only reflects growing recognition of the urgent need for pediatric-specific cancer solutions, but also reinforces the importance of sustained investment in research that can improve survival rates and quality of life for young patients and their familes.

Ronald McDonald House provide so much more than a place to stay — they offer comfort, hope, and support to families during some of their hardest moments. From keeping loved ones close to their children’s care to creating a sense of home, their impact is life-changing. Giving back is easier than you think, whether it’s donating items, time, or simply showing up to help. Every small act makes a big difference.

The 2026 gala will feature live music, and live + silent auctions – all in an effort to support transformational outcomes for rare pediatric cancer patients.

Our annual gala is a powerful reflection of that generosity. In 2025, the event raised over $850,000 - a record-breaking milestone for ISF — giving us the momentum and resources to continue improving outcomes for children battling rare cancers.
And we’re just getting started. We can’t wait to see the impact we’ll make together in
2026. (Psst! Save the date for our Torch Gala coming up on February 28.)

Join the mission and donate by December 31 to double, triple or even quadruple your gift. By helping unlock a $300,000 match, you’re multiplying hope and impact for families facing the unimaginable.

5 PILLARS: SUCCESS 🏆

Success looks different for everyone. For some, it’s a career milestone or a trophy—but for me, success is surviving cancer. I was diagnosed at 12 years old, and now, at 17, I stand here as a survivor.

That journey—facing fear, fighting through pain, and finding strength I didn’t know I had—has shaped who I am. It taught me resilience, gratitude, and the power of perspective.

While success is often measured in awards or achievements, mine is in the quiet victories: waking up each day, continuing to grow, and using my story to inspire others. Surviving cancer is my success—and it’s one I carry with pride

MESSAGE MONDAY

Come out with Miss Caldwell County, Lauryn Mallard and I to support the Isabella Santos Foundation, and their goal of changing the face of funding for rare childhood cancer research!

BANNER ELK, NC

Spent the weekend in one of my favorite places, which is my second home. I love this community of wonderful people and how they rallied together in the aftermath of Helene. There is still evidence of the devastation but they are working together to rebuild.

I’M A SURVIVOR

Today marks five years since I was told I had cancer and needed surgery. I had no idea what I was in for or how much my life was about to change. My journey began at just 12 years old, when a hospital visit—my first ever—turned into an overnight stay after tests showed something wasn’t right. It was scary, unfamiliar, and overwhelming.

After my first surgery, I knew I had a story to tell—one that could shine a light on childhood cancer and the minimal funding it receives from the government.

Now, after three invasive surgeries, two rounds of chemotherapy, and countless outpatient visits, I am proud and honored to call myself a survivor. At 17, I’m passionate about breaking down barriers and raising awareness around childhood cancer. That’s why I created my platform, , where I’ve raised over $15,000 for research. I also serve as an ambassador for the Isabella Santos Foundation, which has raised over $16 million for rare childhood cancers.

It breaks my heart to know that so many children don’t have the same outcome I’ve had. My mission is to bring hope for a cure to patients and families by raising awareness and funding for a positive future.

My dream is a world without cancer. Will you help me make that dream a reality?

ART SHOW 🖼️

Yesterday, I spent the evening at Heidi Kirschner’s Omakase Art Show, which supports the Isabella Santos Foundation. I had an amazing time seeing all the beautiful artwork and meeting Heidi. I also had the pleasure of meeting Miss Connecticut 1968, Gunnel Ragone Greenhagen, who was so kind, said she would be cheering for me. Also she happpens to be the Heidi’s mom too. I can’t thank the Isabella Santos Foundation enough for everything they do; this wouldn't have been possible without their team. 🫶🏼

MESSAGE MONDAY

April is National Volunteer Month, and ISF is celebrating the amazing community of supporters who have dedicated their time, talents, and hearts to our mission.

For 17 years, volunteers, fundraisers, and interns have kept Isabella's spirit alive, and we are endlessly grateful. Your compassion fuels our fight against rare pediatric cancer, and your impact is felt in every family we serve.

As Narda Gohmino from Bank of America beautifully shared:

"Volunteering isn't just about lending a hand - it's about strengthening our communities and making a lasting impact where it matters most. Small actions create big changes, and when we come together, we can truly make a difference in the lives of families facing rare pediatric cancer."

Want to get involved? Whether you're an individual looking to give back or part of a team seeking a meaningful way to volunteer, there's a place for you here.