After the heartbreaking loss of their two-year-old daughter, Lily and Jake Thompson from Chicago have found a way to channel their grief into something meaningful. In January 2018, they said goodbye to their vibrant little girl, Ella, following her courageous eight-month battle with cancer, a journey that has inspired them to uplift other children facing similar challenges.
“Grief is a complex journey,” says Lily. “Initially, it’s all about loss. But eventually, it evolves into a quest for meaning.” Many who have never faced the harrowing experience of losing a child often wonder how parents find the strength to carry on. The truth is, life compels us to keep moving forward, even in the face of unimaginable sorrow. For Lily and Jake, Ella’s spirit continues to shine brightly in their lives, guiding them as they help other children reclaim their joy amidst illness.
Ella approached her diagnosis with remarkable resilience, using her imagination, music, and dance to navigate her new reality. “We quickly transformed her hospital room into a playful haven, decorating it with streamers and disco balls, ensuring that music was always playing,” the Thompsons share. “We wanted her to experience joy, even in a hospital setting.” They worked tirelessly to maintain her childhood innocence, celebrating every small victory.
After Ella’s passing, the Thompsons were determined to honor her legacy. They established the “Ella’s Joy Foundation,” which delivers “Joy Packs” to children battling cancer. These packs are designed to bring a smile during difficult times and serve as a reminder that joy can exist even in the darkest moments.
“What’s inside a Joy Pack?” Jake explains, “They’re vibrant, neon-green backpacks filled with cheerful items like wireless speakers, musical instruments, and decorations to brighten up hospital rooms.” Even when facing dire circumstances, children deserve to experience joy and creativity. “Our mission is to help them continue being kids while they fight,” Lily adds.
The foundation has expanded, inspiring partnerships with multiple hospitals across the country. From hosting birthday parties in hospitals to providing toys for play areas, the Thompsons strive to infuse a sense of normalcy and joy into the lives of young patients.
Though Ella was diagnosed with an extremely rare form of cancer—Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor (AT/RT)—she never stopped dancing and laughing throughout her journey. This spirit is what the Thompsons want to share with other families. Each Joy Pack comes with a personal note from Lily and Jake, reminding recipients that while they cannot always choose their circumstances, they can choose how to respond to them.
The Thompsons’ story is a poignant reminder of the power of love and resilience. They have channeled their grief into a mission that honors Ella’s memory by spreading joy to other children in need. For those interested in understanding more about pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on infertility.
To learn more about the Thompsons and their inspiring journey, visit this link.
In summary, the Thompsons transformed their profound loss into a source of hope for children battling cancer by creating “Joy Packs,” ensuring that every child has a chance to laugh and play, even in challenging times.