As a mother who has navigated the unbearable pain of losing a child to pediatric cancer, each day is a reminder of the love and light my daughter brought into this world. It’s a journey filled with grief but also with purpose.

Recently, we hosted a three-day event that brought together the community, shining a light on the courageous journeys of three remarkable girls currently fighting their own battles with pediatric cancer.

Over the course of the week, we introduced the audience to these brave children. Each girl, at a different stage of her journey, shared her story with an authenticity that was both humbling and inspiring. As I listened to them speak, I could see my daughter in each of them.

Watching these girls, I felt a profound connection to their mothers as well. The shared understanding of fear, hope and relentless love created an unspoken bond among us, a club no one wants to join. It was heartbreaking to see some of the girls physically weakened by their treatments, yet their mental strength shone brightly. They exuded a resilience that seemed to defy their circumstances. Their bravery in sharing their stories was a testament to their spirit, as each of them carried not only their own struggles but also the weight of hope for others, just like Isabella once did.

I must admit, as they spoke, I often felt a protective instinct rising within me.  Telling such personal stories in front of strangers is difficult, and at times, I found myself wanting to shield them from the intensity of their vulnerability. On the final day, the story took me out of my seat as I tried to lock eyes with anyone who could pause the questions, feeling the need to protect them. But to my surprise, I was met with eager smiles and the determination of these girls, telling us that “They were strong enough to do this”.  They wanted to share their experiences, knowing their words could ignite change and inspire others.

This selflessness is a remarkable trait I have witnessed time and again in children fighting cancer. Despite their own struggles, they are willing to give more of themselves, to help others understand and to advocate for a world that is kinder and more aware. It’s a beautiful reminder of the strength that resides in the human spirit, even in today’s world.

Listening to these girls and their mothers was nothing short of transformative. Their stories were raw, yet filled with hope, serving as a powerful reminder that even in the depths of vulnerability, there is strength and purpose. I hope the audience left with a renewed sense of compassion and understanding, inspired by the courageous hearts of these young girls who, even in their most trying moments, sought to make the world a better place.

Today, more than ever, the world needs more people like them —individuals who choose to be brave and give of themselves even when the weight of their own struggles seems insurmountable. In sharing their stories, they are not just fighting for themselves but for every child — every family facing the battle against cancer.

As I reflect on these three days, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to witness such bravery and compassion. My daughter’s legacy continues through the stories of these girls, and together, we are fostering a community of hope and healing. I hope we can carry their messages forward, advocating for change and ensuring that no child faces this journey alone.

— Erin Santos-Primis, ISF Executive Director