Picnic Smiles: Meeting Isabella and Her Family

Last month, Advocate Lutheran Oncology hosted a special picnic for child patients and their families packed with fun activities like a zip line, inflatables, a Lego tent, jewelry making, arts and crafts, therapy dogs, visits from the fire department, Star Wars characters, Disney princesses, and even an ice cream truck! A few Compass to Care families were able to join in the excitement, and we had the wonderful opportunity to meet Isabella and her family here.

Isabella is a bright and bubbly 3-year-old who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia on May 16, 2024. Now, in her second year of treatment, Isabella only needs to visit the hospital once a month and is doing very well both physically and in spirit. Despite everything she’s faced, she’s such a happy child with a smile that shines wherever she goes.

This year, Isabella also began preschool, which she absolutely loves! Her teachers and family describe her as incredibly smart and full of personality. At home, Isabella loves being surrounded by and spending quality time with her family of five, frolicking at the park, swimming, or playing games, anything that lets her be active and share moments with the people she loves most.

At the picnic, Isabella wore her favorite Bluey dress, perfectly showing off her bubbly personality, love for the cartoon, and dogs in general. She had so much fun exploring the activities and spending the day with one of the things she loves most- her family. Her happiness and energy were a joy to see and a reminder of just how bright her spirit is, even despite the toughest situation one can face.

Through her journey, Isabella has continued to amaze her family with her strength, laughter, and love. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, Compass to Care has been able to provide Isabella and her family with 46 trips to treatment thus far, ensuring she can keep receiving the care she needs while her joy and radiant spirit shine through every step of the way.