When 10-year-old Elis Perez-Bencomo began outpatient treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia and aplastic anemia, her world—and her family’s—changed in an instant.
After receiving a bone marrow transplant in February 2025, Elis and her family came to stay at the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester (RMHCR), where they would find not just a place to stay, but a second home.
Finding Rest in the Storm
Before moving into our Westmoreland House, the Perez-Bencomo family spent time in our Family Room at Golisano Children’s Hospital—a quiet refuge during some of their most difficult days.
Once Elis transitioned to outpatient care, they made the Ronald McDonald House their home for 112 days. In that time, they became part of our RMHCR family—and Elis became a source of joy and inspiration to everyone who met her.
Elis’s Light
Elis is an absolute warrior. Her strength, resilience, and joyful spirit carried her through even the hardest days of recovery.
She brought laughter and life into the House, especially on our playground where she spent hours playing with her dolls. Knowing how much she adored them, our team surprised Elis with a beloved American Girl doll, which she instantly cherished.
Due to her immune-compromised condition, Elis needed to avoid shared spaces, so our staff worked to make her room feel magical—bringing in a special kitchen playset so she could enjoy safe, imaginative play during recovery.
A few months ago, Elis was unexpectedly admitted to the hospital on her birthday. We knew she couldn’t celebrate alone. With her nurses’ blessing, our RMHCR Program Staff made a special visit and surprised her with a brand-new doll to brighten her day. Even during treatment, Elis radiated joy—and we were honored to bring a little of it back to her.
Still Fighting, Still Smiling
Today, Elis continues her journey with monthly outpatient appointments and ongoing treatment. There’s no set end date, but surrounded by a loving family, an expert medical team, and the unwavering support of her RMHCR community, Elis continues to face each day with courage and a smile.
Ryan’s Riders: A Race Day to Remember
As part of RMHCR’s partnership with NASCAR, Elis was invited to join Ryan’s Riders, a program created by NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Ryan Ellis. This initiative honors young race fans who are navigating serious medical challenges.
In August 2025, Elis’s name—and a butterfly, her favorite symbol—were featured on Ryan’s #71 Tablo Chevrolet at the Watkins Glen International Racetrack. Elis, her brother Luis, and their parents had an unforgettable day at the track, soaking in the excitement and love from a community that came together to uplift their family during a challenging time.
You Make This Possible
Elis’s journey is a powerful reminder of what your support makes possible. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester exists to care for families with sick or injured children by providing comfort, stability, and moments of joy—exactly when they’re needed most.
