Rubi, 6, Hollister

Rubi’s journey has been one of resilience, courage, and inspiration. At just 5 years old, she faced T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Her story, filled with unimaginable challenges, has touched the hearts of many—especially her mother, Sally, who has shared their experience with the world. 

Rubi’s path was not just about facing cancer, but also about dealing with severe and life-threatening side effects caused by the aggressive treatments she received. “We weren’t just the family fighting cancer, we were fighting everything else that came with it,” Sally explains. From multiple hospital stays to lifesaving procedures, Rubi’s strength and determination stood out, even as she faced overwhelming obstacles. 

Rubi’s approach to her treatment was truly remarkable. Despite the fear and pain of shots, port accesses, and other procedures, she learned how to manage her emotions, shifting her focus from fear to courage. Sally recalls Rubi’s determination. 

“She would voice the feeling that she had,” Sally recalls. “We wanted to give her the ability to understand that feeling but tell that feeling it needs to step aside and let bravery take over.”  

Over time, Rubi began to call on her inner strength and tell her fear to step aside. Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed by the medical team, who marveled at Rubi’s ability to face each challenge head-on. 

Throughout this journey, Rubi’s family was fortunate to find themselves in the capable hands of the medical team at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford. Although they weren’t familiar with the hospital before Rubi’s diagnosis, Sally, a nurse herself, quickly recognized that they were in the best place possible for Rubi’s care.  

“We were going to the best place ever. We’re going to be OK,” Sally says, remembering the moment when Rubi was transferred to Packard Children’s, where the care team’s warmth and professionalism gave them the comfort they so desperately needed. 

Rubi’s journey through cancer treatment has included many intense moments. From ICU stays to severe complications like a pulmonary clot, Rubi’s body was tested in ways most can’t imagine. But through it all, Rubi’s infectious smile and brave spirit never wavered.  

“I have been incredibly impressed by Rubi’s strength throughout her treatment–how bravely she faces challenges, and how her parents have helped support her through it all,” says Rubi’s oncologist, Adrienne Long, MD, PhD. “Even when hospitalized for her intensive treatments, Rubi remained full of light.” 

Rubi’s family encouraged her to find ways to bring play and childhood whimsy into her hospital room. Dr. Long recalls getting a “flu shot” during one of Rubi’s imaginary immunization clinics, and she played along as Rubi—who has dreamt of a career in law enforcement since she was a toddler—pretended to arrest her. Rubi’s family received widespread support from the Bay Area law enforcement community when they learned she had to cancel her police-themed 5th birthday party following her cancer diagnosis, and since then “Officer Rubi” has had a huge fan club. 

As Rubi continues her journey, she has become a symbol of hope and perseverance for other children and families facing cancer. This year, Rubi will be honored as a Summer Scamper Patient Hero at the 5k, Kids’ Fun Run, and Family Festival on Saturday, June 21.

Rubi’s story is far from over, but she is a beacon of hope for anyone facing adversity. Thank you for supporting Packard Children’s Hospital and the vital pediatric oncology research happening at the Stanford School of Medicine.