Team Name: PIPERSTRONG
Here is their story as told by Piper and Ava’s parents, Kellie and Jonas
In April 2024, we brought Piper to Sinai Hospital for an endoscopy to rule out Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE), an allergic inflammatory condition that can affect eating. Since she would be under anesthesia for the procedure, we requested routine blood work to be done as well. We had no idea that this simple test would forever alter our lives.
While Piper was in recovery, her gastroenterologist, Dr. Mansoor, let us know that her blood work showed alarmingly high levels of white blood cells. Initially, they suspected an error with the sample and suggested repeating the test. But, as it turned out, there was no mistake. The second test confirmed our worst fears—Piper’s white blood cell count had soared to 190,000. She was immediately admitted, and further testing led to a diagnosis of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML). CML is exceedingly rare in children, affecting roughly one in a million, with only 100-150 new cases diagnosed annually.
Piper’s treatment plan involves taking two daily chemotherapy pills designed to lower her white blood cell count and manage the disease. While CML is currently incurable, advancements in research have made it a manageable condition, allowing Piper to lead a mostly normal life. Piper has already achieved the first phase of remission, and we remain hopeful for complete molecular remission in the coming months and years.
In the face of every parent’s worst nightmare, we were incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Unguru by our side, ensuring that Piper received the best possible care. Words cannot adequately express our profound gratitude to Dr. Unguru and his 
team. As newcomers to the world of pediatric cancer, his guidance has been invaluable. Those who know Dr. Unguru understand that he has a unique ability to make even the most daunting situations feel manageable, and we are so thankful that he was on call that day when we needed him most. It was through Dr. Unguru, who happens to be theMedical Director for Horizon Day Camp, that we first learned about this amazing camp for children with cancer and their siblings.
Based in Baltimore and serving children throughout Maryland, Horizon Day Camp welcomed Piper and her older sister, 
Ava, for a summer of fun – providing the girls with a much needed sense of normalcy. It is also important to mention that this camp is completely FREE for families, including bus transportation (the girls rode the “Strawberry bus” throughout the summer). Piper was able to enjoy summer activities in a safe environment, surrounded by medical staff, while Ava, herolder sister, found solace in meeting other siblings who understood her feelings and experiences. The camp was a blessing for our family in many ways—the girls returned home happy and exhausted, allowing us, as parents, to focus on work during the day and enjoy peaceful evenings. They made friends and enjoyed special experiences all summer long.Unanimous camp favorites from Ava and Piper include the “Cow” ice cream truck, the pool, the Art Barn, and of course the camp songs and chants that are still being recited often.
Throughout this ordeal, we’ve often said that we have the “best worst luck.” While we wish Piper had never developed CML, we feel incredibly fortunate to have added anew circle of support in the Hematology-Oncology team at Sinai and the wonderful staff at Horizon Day Camp. We look forward to many special experiences with Horizon ahead, and, as such, the girls are so excited to serve as this year’s HorizonWALKS Camper Ambassadors! We invite everyone to join PIPERSTRONG at the walk for a morning of fun! We especially want to extend appreciation to everyone who supports this special celebration and important benefit for Horizon Day Camp – one that helps create lasting impact for children and families such as ours!