01-05-2025
Tampa toddler named 2025 ‘honored hero' after beating cancer before her 2nd birthday
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — At just two years old, Lana Michel has already overcome a battle most adults can't imagine, and now, she's being celebrated as a symbol of resilience and hope.
Diagnosed with a rare form of leukemia just months after her first birthday, Lana faced an intense medical journey that included multiple rounds of chemotherapy and even spending Christmas in the hospital.
Her diagnosis, acute myeloid leukemia, was linked to her having Down syndrome, something her parents, Olivia and her husband, knew could increase her risk, but still weren't fully prepared for.
'My poor baby is going to have to endure so much,' said Olivia. 'We were actually in the car when we found out, and we just had to pull over and cry.'
But Lana fought hard, and just before her second birthday, doctors delivered the news her family had been praying for: she was in remission.
'That was the best feeling,' said Olivia. 'She's in remission now.'
Now, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is honoring Lana as their 2025 Honored Hero, a title that recognizes her courage and determination.
She'll be recognized at the Visionaries of the Year Gala Friday evening at Armature Works in Tampa, where she'll take the spotlight in a red dress and little black heels.
'She inspires me, and I thought that she could inspire other people,' Olivia said.
As Lana plays happily at home these days, her story is already making an impact. Olivia hopes it gives strength to other families navigating a cancer diagnosis in children.
'Take it one day at a time. There will be hard days, for sure,' said Olivia. 'But there will also be good in some days.'
The Visionaries of the Year Gala begins at 6 p.m. Friday at Armature Works. All funds raised will go toward cancer research and family support services provided by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
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