Letter to the Editor: Ellie's Family Thanks Community for Support, Generosity

The following letter was sent to Patch on Sunday by the family of Ellie Cuiching, a 6-year-old Lemont girl battling a massive brain tumor. On Friday night, for Ellie's medical bills.

To the Community of Lemont,

Soon after multiple members of the Lemont community learned of our daughter/grandaughter's life-threatening brain tumor and surgeries, they quickly mobilized to come to our family's aid and support.

Terri O'Neill, sometimes known as "the Angel of Lemont," immediately organized a  weeklong local restaurant fundraiser at Front Street Cantina, 3 Corners Grill & Tap, Stonehouse Pub, Slammers Bar and Grill, Nick's Tavern and This Must Be the Place. These events culminated in an enjoyable and successful "Hearts and Love for Ellie " benefit on Friday, Feb. 11, at This Must Be the Place.

Terri and her team of volunteers sacrificed countless hours of time and energy to help our family. The community of Lemont came together to help our 6-year-old Ellie and her fight against brain cancer. Donations for the auctions came from local businesses, local families, neighbors, teachers, friends and relatives of the family and anonymous donors. Two local bands, Fort Awesome and Field Day, volunteered their time to provide entertainment.

The support of the community humbled us as a family. We received words of hope and encouragement and hugs of comfort. The efforts of this community —our neighbors, teachers, firemen, policemen, business owners, friends and family — helped our family in a time of real need. We were surrounded by people who truly cared and wanted to help. Your kindness has given us strength and energy.

Thank you. Lemont is beyond a doubt one-in-a-million.

We want to encourage everyone to continue the spirit of love and caring of our wonderful town and to join in future similar endeavors. To learn more about Ellie's story and her ongoing challenge, please visit LoveforEllie.com.

With deepest gratitude,

The Family of Ellie Cuiching