Living Her Bucket List with Courage and Joy

Eliana is a radiant and resilient 19-year-old who has been courageously fighting a rare and aggressive cancer known as Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT). Diagnosed at just 17, Eli faced a stage 4 diagnosis of a cancer that typically affects young males—yet she has met every challenge with remarkable strength and grace.

Despite everything she has endured, Eli continues to embody the spirit of Project Sol Flower’s motto: Live Your Bucket List. Surrounded by a loving family—including six brothers and a new baby sister—she remains grounded in gratitude and focused on living each day with purpose. Eli refuses to let cancer define her journey.

A Birthday to Remember

To celebrate Eli’s 19th birthday, Project Sol Flower curated a series of incredible bucket list experiences—each one reflecting her adventurous spirit, deep connections, and unwavering joy.

Skydiving for Freedom

Eli launched her birthday week with a breathtaking skydiving adventure alongside her mom, stepdad, and boyfriend. More than just an adrenaline rush, this leap into the sky symbolized freedom—a powerful release from the weight of cancer, if only for a moment. Our hope was that in the silence between sky and earth, Eli felt light, free, and truly alive.

A Magical Weekend in the Mountains

Next, Eli and her family escaped to the serene beauty of Estes Park, Colorado, for a relaxing mountain getaway. Their stay in a luxurious home provided a cozy, peaceful setting to reconnect and recharge. Adding a bit of playful mystery to the trip, Eli and her boyfriend spent a night at the historic—and famously haunted—Stanley Hotel, even joining a séance to embrace its eerie charm.

A Glamorous Day with Her Best Friend

One of Eli’s biggest wishes was a glamorous photo shoot with her best friend and fellow Sol Flower Dreamer, Quincy. The two met during cancer treatment and formed a beautiful, lasting bond. This experience was extra special—it marked their first time together outside of the hospital.

We transformed the vibrant and whimsical Disco Den Airbnb in Westminster, CO, into the ultimate girls’ retreat, filled with sweet treats, games, matching pajamas, Polaroid cameras, and everything needed for a joyful, carefree day.

With professional makeup and styling by the incredibly talented Amber of Ah-Mobile Spas, both girls felt truly pampered and radiant. The day was beautifully captured by Chelsey Bibeau Photography, giving both families a collection of treasured moments. We’re also deeply grateful to The Denver Hospice, whose compassionate nurse support made this unforgettable experience possible.

It Takes a Village

None of these extraordinary experiences would be possible without our generous donors, partners, and community supporters. When we say it takes a village, we mean it—from those who donate, to those who lend their time, talent, or services, you make dreams like Eli’s come true.

Thank you for helping us turn a difficult journey into one filled with joy, love, and lasting memories.