When Adrianna was only 2 years old, she suddenly started walking with a limp. She began to cry in pain during diaper changes, and she was sleepier than usual. Her pediatrician thought it was just a virus. But weeks later, when Adrianna wasn’t getting any better, doctors sent her to a local hospital for further testing.

It was the worst possible news. Cancer.

That’s terrifying enough for anyone, let alone for such a young child. Adrianna needed many rounds of chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. She would lose her long brown hair. Then she learned she needed more advanced treatment – but it was at a hospital hours away from home.

Even when faced with leaving her sister and brother she loved so much, her friends, and her own comfy bed, Adrianna still had just one simple request: To have her mom by her side throughout her care. To be able to squeeze her hand when the pain got really bad. And to get lots of hugs and kisses from her.

“When I had cancer, it felt like there was something in my belly, and I felt dizzy,” Adrianna told me. “But I love coming to the Ronald McDonald House and being in the playroom. I made friends here. My mommy is with me, so I get lots of hugs and kisses from her. It makes it not hurt so much.”

Today Adrianna is an active, happy girl, and she is also cancer-free!