Harper was 10 months old when her dad noticed a hard bulge in her abdomen. Urgent care and her pediatrician attributed it to constipation but we pushed for an ultrasound that would change everything. In December of 2024, an ultrasound identified a mass on Harper's ovary, which turned out to be an incredibly rare ovarian tumor that is basically unheard of in children but had already advanced to stage 3. Harper endured 3 surgeries and 7 rounds of chemotherapy when doctors felt and were hopeful that the disease was under control though we knew that time would reveal the truth of the situation. Within months, scans showed lesions on Harper's liver and after watching them closely and eventually moving onto a biopsy, it was discovered that these implants were the same Sertoli cell ovarian cancer. Harper is currently receiving chemotherapy for the recurrent disease with a plan to receive high dose chemotherapy and auto transplants in the near future. With her cancer being so rare, never in pediatrics and advancing beyond and records doctors can find, there is no protocol to follow. Her dedicated team of doctors is working tirelessly to come up with the best plan of action to hopefully eradicate this cancer once and for all.

Ribbons Rising was there to help us during our time of need. They generously reached out to talk, were very supportive and sent gifts as well. Ribbons Rising also made a monetary contribution to our EZ Pass account which had helped with the frequent traveling to and from NYC for treatment. I left my job to be able to care for Harper and take her to and from every appointment and hospital stay so relieving the financial burden so we can focus on Harper and her recovery is a major help.

When so much is a challenge these days, having foundations like Ribbons Rising show up to help is such a blessing. We are so grateful for the assistance we've received as we fight through the most difficult battle of our lives. 

Meet Veronica

Dear Ribbons Rising Team,

 I am writing this letter with deep gratitude and heartfelt appreciation for the extraordinary support you provided me during one of the most challenging chapters of my life.

Let me introduce you to Veronica 2.0!

In July 2025, at 51 years old, I was a mother, a dedicated educator in my 25th year of teaching, and someone who loved her students, colleagues, and the path ahead. I was eagerly preparing to step into a new role as a transition coordinator. Then, everything changed with three words: “You have cancer.” it is difficult to convey the weight those words carry— but they have the power to stop life in its tracks.

 Despite knowing how many of others have walked this path, breast cancer felt incredibly isolating. My own mother had walked this path for nearly 20 years and it still felt completely different than the one I had walked as a daughter of a survivor. What would happen to my children? My husband? My students? Who would be the glue while I took a step back? Had I let my family down? These were just some of the racing questions floating around in my mind… I found myself overwhelmed with fear, uncertainty, and an unfamiliar sense of vulnerability. Asking for help— something I had never been comfortable— suddenly became essential. I was diagnosed with stage zero, intermediate grade, estrogen- and pro- positive breast cancer. Along with the diagnosis came a cascade of physical and emotional changes that affected every part of my identity— my energy, my confidence, my patience, and my sense of self.

In September, I underwent a complete mastectomy— a decision I made with certainty, despite differing opinions. The weeks followed, were filled with exhaustion, nausea, and emotional, highs, and lows that were difficult to navigate. By November, I found myself particularly depleted, facing the looming reality of returning to work during flu season and managing the daily commute while still recovering.

It was during this, especially vulnerable time that I received a package from Ribbons Rising. What might seem like a simple gesture became a profound moments of connection and healing. The thoughtfully prepared package, filled with meaningful items and care, brought me an unexpected sense of comfort. I opened it and found myself smiling— feeling, perhaps, for the first time in a while, truly seen, understood, and supported.

Your kindness reminded me that even in the darkest moments, there is light. You restored a sense of hope when I needed it most and reminded me that I was not alone in this journey. While I remain part of a “club”, I never chose to join— that of a cancer survivor— I now carry it with a renewed sense of strength and purpose. Because of Ribbons Rising, I feel empowered, not only to continue healing, but also to share my story in hopes that it reaches someone else who may be struggling. Your work creates a ripple effect of compassion and resilience that extends far beyond a single moment.

I wholeheartedly, recommend and support ribbons rising for the incredible difference you make, and lives of individuals facing cancer. Your compassion, thoughtfulness, and dedication, truly matter most likely when one needs it the most.

My children and husbands are better humans, my team is still amazing, and I have returned to work just as capable as before with a clearer sense of healthy boundaries, as a result of my experience!

With sincere gratitude, Ribbons Rising! Your work is necessary and appreciated!

Veronica 2.0 Groffel-Savarese