Of all of the blessings moms are thankful for, the most important blessing is that of a healthy child. When I hear stories about other children who battle diseases far beyond their years it breaks my heart, reminds me how lucky I am and makes me want to hug my baby. The story of little Ella will do just that.
Ella was born October 15, 2010, and for the first five months Ella was the picture of health. Just before she turned six months old things began to change, and in May 2011 this sweet baby girl was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma (a very aggressive form of childhood cancer). Play dates and walks in the park have been replaced by surgeries and chemo for the little girl who is not even a year old. Learn more about Ella’s story.
Ella’s story tears me up every time I think about her, and it moved a group of local moms so much that they decided to create a fundraising event to help Ella’s family with its mounting medical bills. The moms call themselves “Team Ella,” and will host a spaghetti lunch on August 7 from 12 – 3 pm at St John Vianney Catholic Church 6200 S. Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando). Every penny raised will support Ella and her family.
In addition to lunch (spaghetti, bread, side salad and a drink), attendees will be treated to entertainment by Mr. Richard, a clown and Elmo all for just $5. Team Ella has also lined up an impressive list of items that will be raffled off at the event including:
- 4 Disney Park Hopper Tickets
- Universal Studios tickets
- 2 Tickets to the Capital One Bowl
- An HP Desktop Computer
- Hotel Packages
- Spa Packages
- Golf Packages
- Photography Sessions
- Restaurant Gift Cards
- Free Ben & Jerry’s ice cream for a year
- Sea World tickets
- Vera Bradley gift baskets
- 31 Gifts baskets
- ZOOM teeth whitening packages
- Oil changes
- Movie tickets
- $50 Amaya Papaya gift card
- And More!