Eloise's Story
Eloise was diagnosed with Stage III rhabdomyosarcoma in March 2008, several months after her 12th birthday. She bravely underwent chemo and radiation from March 2008 - February 2009. At the end of her treatment, she was deemed NED - 'no evidence of disease.'
Unfortunately, as she was preparing to return to school in late August 2009, she was diagnosed with recurrent rhabdomyosarcoma. The prognosis was grim. Once again, her bravery and hope shone through when she asked that we not 'take her hope away.' Those next nine months were a gift; Eloise passed away on May 1, 2010.
Eloise's family believes wholeheartedly in CureSearch's mission: research is the key to the cure. They showed their commitment to this belief by establishing a Legacy Fund in Eloise's name on her 5 year anniversary. The Gould family is extremely appreciative of the emotional and financial support that has resulted in their efforts at nearly a dozen CureSearch Walks held throughout the country over the years.
Eloise's mother Annie serves CureSearch's Board of Directors. As Annie has said, "there was no master plan" following Eloise's death. Their involvement with CureSearch has given them the ability to give back and remain hopeful that, one day, there will be a cure for all childhood cancers.
Donations made to Eloise's Fund will be dedicated to CureSearch's Acceleration Initiative projects which are highly innovative, address a significant challenge in pediatric cancer drug development, and have a strong probably of clinical application — ready to reach patients within three to five years.