Now seven years old, Ellis reunited with his Friends of Karen Sibling Support Specialist/Child Life Specialist, Melissa, to look back on his treatment journey, reminisce about their time spent together and reflect on how far he has come.  He fondly remembers the weekly visits from Melissa, who met with him and his brother throughout treatment. Together they played games, built a gingerbread house, talked about feelings, and found ways to make difficult days a little brighter. Ellis still treasures the panda-cat stuffed animal she brought him for his birthday, and he proudly uses the Minecraft backpack he received from Friends of Karen when he returned to school. He also remembers that some days were hard, and that it was okay to feel angry, sad, or frustrated.

When asked what he can do now that he couldn’t do during treatment, his answer was immediate:

“RUN!”

Cancer treatment left Ellis physically weakened, making even simple activities difficult. Today, he is back to running, playing, and enjoying being a kid.

When Ellis hears the word survivor, he thinks of a T-shirt he once had that said, “Tiny but Mighty.”

“It means I am strong,” he explains.

Ellis’s story is a powerful reminder of how Friends of Karen supports families throughout the trajectory of a child’s illness—providing practical assistance, emotional support, and moments of comfort during some of life’s most difficult challenges. And while treatment may end, the connection often continues. Many families remain part of the Friends of Karen community long after their child’s care is complete, sharing milestones, celebrating achievements, and allowing us to witness the growth, resilience, and joy that follow.

We are grateful to celebrate Ellis today—to see him running, thriving, and showing us what it truly means to be tiny but mighty. This National Cancer Survivors Month, we honor Ellis and all survivors whose courage inspires us every day.