RemiStrong

On May 12, 2025, our world changed forever when our beautiful daughter, Remi, was diagnosed with unilateral retinoblastoma, a rare childhood eye cancer, at just 9 months old. What we thought was a simple concern with her eye quickly became every parent’s worst nightmare. By the time her cancer was discovered, the tumor had taken over more than 80% of her eye, leaving no way to save her vision. Just days later, she underwent surgery to remove her left eye in order to save her life.

After surgery, pathology revealed high-risk features, meaning the cancer had begun to spread beyond the eye. Remi then faced six rounds of chemotherapy. Instead of spending her first year exploring the world like most babies, she spent it in hospital rooms, undergoing procedures, blood draws, scans, and treatments. Through it all, she never stopped smiling. She has shown more courage than most people will ever have to.

Although chemotherapy is behind her, her journey is far from over. She continues to see her oncology team, undergo routine monitoring, attend prosthetic eye appointments as she grows, and see multiple specialists. We recently learned that scar tissue has caused her tear duct to close, leading to recurring infections. She is now preparing for another surgery to have a tube placed in her eye socket, and afterward she won’t be able to swim while she recovers.

Before her surgery, our greatest wish is to take Remi to Great Wolf Lodge. Swimming is her favorite thing in the world, and after everything she has been through, we would love to watch her simply be a happy, carefree little girl making memories with her family. Last summer was filled with hospitals and chemotherapy. This summer has been her first chance to truly experience childhood, and we hope to make it as special as possible before another surgery.

If you feel moved to support our family, any financial assistance, no matter the amount, would be deeply appreciated. Your generosity would help us create precious memories for Remi while also easing some of the financial strain that continues long after treatment ends. If you’re unable to give, your prayers, kind words, and sharing our story mean just as much.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for taking the time to read Remi’s story and for reminding our family that we are not walking this journey alone. Every act of kindness gives us hope and helps bring a little more joy to a little girl who has already overcome so much. ❤️

Donations made to Tough2gether Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. While funds raised in connection with this family will directly support them, all donations are made to Tough2gether Foundation and may also be used to support other families facing pediatric cancer, related programs, and charitable initiatives at the Foundation’s discretion.