Eleanor's Army

Story

Our sweet Eleanor is a bright, joyful two-year-old who fills every room with laughter and light. She’s gentle and playful, obsessed with animals, pink tutus, and all things sparkly — a girly girl who also loves to roughhouse and make everyone around her giggle. Just a few short weeks ago, life was wonderfully ordinary. Preschool days, playground adventures, and bedtime stories filled our routines. We never imagined how quickly everything could and would change.

It started so simply — a low-grade fever that lingered for a few days. She didn’t seem sick, just a little more tired than usual. At her pediatrician visit, we expected to hear it was a virus. Instead, her doctor noticed her spleen felt enlarged and asked us to return later that week for bloodwork. By Wednesday, her labs looked concerning enough that he gently said the word no parent ever wants to hear: leukemia.

Two days later, at the Children’s Hospital, our world shifted. Despite how energetic and happy Eleanor seemed, blood tests confirmed she had leukemia. We were admitted that same day. It was terrifying, surreal — but even in that moment, we felt peace. We knew God was with us, and that He would give us the strength to walk this road beside our brave little girl.

Eleanor’s treatment began right away. Those first hospital days were long and hard, full of tests, IVs, and so many “ouchies.” But she faced it all with courage and smiles that inspired every doctor and nurse who cared for her. After a week in the hospital, we came home to continue treatment. Every Monday, she goes to the clinic for chemo, and each day she takes oral medications that are tough on her little body but vital to her healing.

Because her immune system is fragile, our home has become her safe haven. We can’t have visitors, and outings are off-limits for now — a challenge for a little girl who loves people and playdates. Still, she’s finding joy in the small things: movies, coloring, FaceTiming friends, and cooking with mom in the kitchen.

Through every moment, Eleanor’s faith and light have never wavered. We continue to see glimpses of her joyful spirit, her patience, and her sweetness shining through. Our family’s faith has anchored us — we lean on God daily and feel the prayers of those around us carrying us through.

Adding to this already emotional journey, we are eight months pregnant with Eleanor’s baby brother, due in early November. Balancing treatments, appointments, and preparing to welcome a new baby has been overwhelming, but we know his arrival will be a bright and beautiful blessing in this hard season.

We’re praying for continued healing for Eleanor, for her treatment to work as it should, and for strength to meet each new day with hope. Thank you for following our story and for helping lift our family during this time — your love, support, and prayers mean more than we can ever express.