05/05/2026
💗We are honored to introduce our newest recipient of a DREAM 💫 bedroom makover - RACHEL!
Rachel is an amazing young woman from Carmel.
Her wonderful mother shares her story below in her own words. Her journey is also one of incredible strength and resilience, and we cannot wait to create a special space just for her.💗
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“The first sign that something was wrong came during Winter Break in 2024, while visiting family in New Orleans. On the first day of the trip, Rachel mentioned soreness in her right leg and foot. A new pair of supportive sneakers seemed to help at first, but by the end of the week, she was unable to properly lift her foot. By the time school resumed in January, Rachel was limping, and soon after, she could no longer put weight on her right leg and relied on crutches. By early February, the girl who once modeled, appeared in commercials, and played basketball and volleyball was confined to a wheelchair and no longer attending school in person.
Rachel underwent multiple tests, including Electromyography (EMG) and MRIs, in an effort to determine the cause. The severity of her pain made it difficult for her to lie still, even with prescription relief, and it led to several late-night emergency room visits. It wasn’t until she was admitted to the Riley Hospital Emergency Department that the process of finding answers truly began.
In February 2025, at age 12, Rachel and her family received the diagnosis, but it was difficult to hear: cancer—a tumor on the sciatic nerve of her right leg. Initially identified as an undifferentiated sarcoma, it was later confirmed as epithelioid sarcoma. Rachel underwent several rounds of inpatient chemotherapy at Riley Hospital throughout the spring and summer.
Thankfully, Rachel’s body has responded well to treatment, and her cancer currently shows no signs of progression. She continues to have regular scans to closely monitor her health.
Through weekly physical therapy and incredible determination, Rachel has made significant progress and is now able to walk using an AFO (brace). Through it all, she has remained outgoing, resilient, and determined not to let her diagnosis define her. Rachel plays volleyball for her middle school team, enjoys golf, and continues to approach life with strength and optimism, supported by her care team, family, and friends.”
