08/20/2026
We’re so excited to introduce you to our 2026 Patient Champion, Ellie.
At just six years old, Ellie was diagnosed with a pilocytic astrocytoma, a brain tumor wrapped around her optic nerves. Within days of her diagnosis, she underwent neurosurgery at Lurie Children’s. When chemotherapy was unable to stop the tumor’s growth, her care team helped her access a targeted therapy that ultimately changed the course of her treatment.
Today, Ellie is a thriving high school student who loves basketball, singing, playing piano, spending time with family, and cheering on Chicago sports teams. She describes herself as “very loud, pretty outgoing, and very hard working,” and hopes people see her for more than her diagnosis.
“I want people to know we’re not just a kid with cancer. We’re our own person.”
Ellie’s journey is a powerful reminder of why we come together for the Race Against Cancer. Every dollar raised helps ensure children facing cancer have access to expert care, innovative treatments, supportive programs, and groundbreaking research that make stories like Ellie’s possible. 💙🎗️