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Help Baby Penelope Fight Retinoblastoma
At just 6 weeks old, beautiful baby Penelope was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare and aggressive eye cancer that affects children. What should have been the start of a joyful chapter in her life quickly turned into hospital visits, tests, and treatments at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, where she is receiving specialized care.
Penelope’s journey will include chemotherapy, procedures to save her vision, and ongoing monitoring to ensure the cancer does not spread. She is facing challenges no child should ever have to endure, but she is already showing incredible strength.
About Her Family
Penelope is surrounded by love and courage. Her mom, Joanna, a nurse at Shriners Children’s Hospital, is currently on maternity leave and not receiving her full wages. Her dad, Brandon, is a seasonal firefighter for CAL FIRE, who will be laid off on December 16th for the remainder of the winter.
As devoted parents who have dedicated their lives to serving others, their greatest priority now is being by Penelope’s side through every step of her treatment. With uncertain timelines for when they will be able to return to work, the financial strain is heavy — but their focus remains firmly on supporting their daughter in this fight.
Why We Need Your Help
- Medical expenses and specialized treatments are overwhelming.
- Travel, lodging, and time away from work add financial strain.
- Penelope will need long-term follow-up care to protect her vision.
How You Can Make a Difference
Your generosity will help ease the burden on Penelope’s family so they can focus on what matters most: being by her side through every step of this fight. Every donation, no matter the size, brings hope and strength to Penelope’s journey.
Penelope is a fighter, and with your love and support, we believe she can overcome this battle.
Please consider donating and sharing her story to help surround her with the care and support she deserves.
Thank you for standing with Penelope
Organizer and beneficiary
Joanna OCallaghan
Beneficiary






