Sonny's Story

Reinforcing Our Commitment

Sonny was born on July 23, 1996 in Erie, PA. She lived life with unapologetic vigor.  Her smile and infectious laugh literally lit up every room she entered. She loved soccer, babies, a good meal, travelling, and most of all; her family. 

​

On March 29, 2017, at the age of 20, Sonata "Sonny" Belle Greishaw lost an almost 18 month battle with Acute Myloid Leukemia 6.  She endured many rounds of chemotherapy, participated in clinical trials, and was blessed to have a bone marrow transplant in May 2016. Her case was one that makes standard treatment options very tricky because she had a gene mutation, referred to as FLT3, that protected the leukemia cells in her blood and made her resistant to chemotherapy. She was honored to be able to receive some of the world's best treatment through Emory University Hospital; a research based teaching hospital located in Atlanta, GA. (Thank you 6E nurses especially.)

​

Sonny was an amazing and vibrant young woman with a servant's heart.  True to her character, she did not let her diagnosis stop her by any means.  She continued to be a positive beacon of strength and took her situation as an opportunity to help others.  Not only did she support other patients by donating gifts, time, money and her very own hair; she helped to organize two teams to participate in the 2016 Light the Night Walk Events; one in Erie,PA and one in Atlanta, GA.

​

We would like to celebrate one of the most phenomenally brave women we know!! She represents beauty, compassion, and an absolute zest for life. Her spirit continues to shine on through all the good works #teamsonnyssunshine does in her memory. She is the reason #whyweadvocate.

​

​