Jade Miller

Child’s Story

Jade Miller

Diagnosis: Rhabdomyosarcoma

Jade is a fashionista heel wearing three-year-old. She loves hot pink and zebras. She’ll act shy, but she’s the boss of our house and her siblings. In her own words, “I don’t like anybody’s dinner.” She loves to drive in little cars, do tricks on the monkey bars and play outside. 

On Jade’s third birthday, a small lump under her jaw changed everything. What began as a joyful day quickly turned into a life-altering journey when a routine checkup led to a heartbreaking diagnosis—Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. The tumor grew rapidly, threatening her airway, and required urgent surgery. Despite the complexity and risk, surgeons were able to remove most of the tumor while preserving critical facial nerves. Jade’s recovery from the 5.5-hour procedure was difficult, leaving her with temporary facial paralysis, pain, and challenges eating and speaking.

Jade bravely completed an intensive treatment plan, including months of chemotherapy and daily radiation sessions. During that time, she relied on a feeding tube and endured anesthesia for each radiation procedure, which came with serious breathing complications. She has since finished both chemo and radiation, and no longer needs the feeding tube. Although her journey is far from over—with future surgeries, therapy, and long-term healing still ahead—she has already overcome so much.

Jade’s main source of comfort and healing came from her siblings. The sibling power of love is real and strong. Jade is a light in our home, she is a cuddle bug and so sweet to us when she wants to be. We are truly grateful for her fight and view on life. She and this experience has forever changed us. #jadebutterflymaren