"I'm so happy - it's my piggy playground!" Lizzie exclaimed when she saw the structure.
Elizabeth "Lizzie" loves her family, her friends, and her pets. Two of those pets - pigs Moose and Marvin - are especially cherished, as they have helped 6-year-old Lizzie deal with numerous chemotherapy treatments, as well as various other procedures, for her leukemia diagnosis. In fact, she loves her pet pigs so much that she was inspired to wish for a "piggy-themed play structure" for her backyard! Thanks to company Genentech along with community volunteers, her wish for a play structure became a reality, where she, her family, and her pigs can enjoy many outdoor moments together.
Lizzie's medical journey began with a sudden diagnosis shortly after her 4th birthday, leading to intense treatments. "It was a complete shock; we did not see it coming," Lizzie's mother said. Diagnosed with acute leukemia, Lizzie underwent chemotherapy treatment - including at one point - daily chemo treatments for a month, lumbar punctures, and surgery for a chest port. Throughout it all though, her pet pigs Moose and Marvin provided comfort, solidifying their place as cherished family members.
Lizzie's wish day started with a classroom celebration and homemade cookies that were decorated with yellow ribbons symbolizing childhood cancer. A limo ride to Dave & Buster's to enjoy games while the structure was assembled followed. The highlight of the day was the surprise unveiling of her custom-built playground, accompanied by a rock painting activity with her friends. "My family and friends are amazing. I love them so much," Lizzie said about the day's events.
Lizzie recently rang the bell of triumph, symbolizing the completion of her chemotherapy.