Making Her Way
Connor’s Heroes supports Central Virginia families through their child’s cancer
During a blissful time of life, a local family received a devastating diagnosis. Samantha Velez was expecting a son any day when the Velez family learned their 15-month-old daughter, Eleanor, had childhood cancer.
Eleanor underwent testing after an ear infection would not heal. Her pediatrician discovered Eleanor’s hemoglobin was critically low. The family was sent to the emergency department at Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU (ChoR) where Eleanor was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in November 2025.
“In hindsight, she had other symptoms that we didn’t realize were leukemia – exhaustion, kept getting sick, and bone pain,” explains Velez.
Eleanor was admitted to the hospital where her family received a Connor’s Heroes Backpack full of toys and an iPad.
Caring For A Newborn And Toddler In Treatment
While at ChoR, Eleanor received two rounds of induction chemotherapy and went into remission. She was then able to undergo a haploidentical allogenic bone marrow transplant.
“As we were preparing for Eleanor’s discharge, Connor’s Heroes helped us get supplies to better care for Eleanor at home,” explains Velez.
Today, Eleanor is a happy two-year-old who loves to play with dolls, her little brother, and stuffed animals. “She loves medical play and we joke that she is going to be a future nurse,” exclaims Velez.
Eleanor still visits ChoR for her follow-up clinics and her iPad from Connor’s Heroes is not far from her side, but even more exciting is the opportunity to attend Connor’s Heroes art sessions and other events now that she is home.
AUTHOR: Michelle Nunnally
This year marks 20 years that Connor’s Heroes has been a part of the community. Connor’s Heroes is dedicated to helping the families in Central Virginia cope with childhood cancer and our community’s researchers conquer it. Our mission is to build a community of heroes who provide hope, guidance, and support. 📲 Make a gift / 🦸 Support a Hero / 🧑🧑🧒🧒 Join us.
