Ten months ago, when the nights were at their longest, Ned Rice reached out to strangers via email to share the heartbreaking situation his family was facing. His 3-year-old daughter, Wynnie, had been diagnosed with brain cancer. As a Phillies assistant general manager, Rice turned to these medical professionals across the country for advice and information, seeking any help he could get.
His wife, Cary Rice, admitted that she could not bring herself to google medulloblastoma, the type of brain cancer Wynnie was battling. The emotional toll was too much for her to handle, even though she is usually an analytical thinker. The decision-making process was daunting for the Rices as doctors at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) advised against radiation treatment due to Wynnie’s young age, despite the fact that it could improve her chances of survival.
Seeking a second opinion, Rice connected with a neuro-oncologist named Richard Graham from Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, who provided valuable insights and support. This was just one of the many instances of kindness and generosity that the Rice family experienced during this difficult time. From unexpected gifts to messages from strangers and the unwavering support of family and friends, the outpouring of love and care helped them navigate through the toughest moments.
The journey was filled with ups and downs, from the initial signs of Wynnie’s illness to the devastating diagnosis of medulloblastoma. The Rices found solace in the support of their community, both within and outside the hospital walls. Nurses, doctors, friends, and even colleagues from the Phillies organization rallied around them, offering comfort and assistance in various ways.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the Rices remained hopeful and focused on getting through each day. Wynnie’s treatment was intense, requiring frequent hospital stays and rounds of chemotherapy and stem cell transplants. Throughout it all, Wynnie’s resilience and spirit shone through, earning her the nickname of a “beast” by her parents.
As the Phillies season unfolded and life continued with its unpredictable twists, the Rices found moments of joy and celebration amidst the chaos. Wynnie’s birthday party, held outdoors to minimize infection risks, was a testament to the love and support they had received. Surrounded by friends and well-wishers, Wynnie’s strength and courage were honored, symbolized by the purple flowers painted on her forehead.
The journey was far from over, with challenges still ahead, but the Rice family remained grateful for the village that had stood by them. Through the darkest moments, they found light in the kindness of strangers, the compassion of healthcare providers, and the unwavering love of family and friends. And as Wynnie faced each day with bravery and resilience, her parents held onto hope for a brighter future.
