11-Year-Old Leukemia Patient's Window Signs Fill Hospital Floor With Pizza, Cupcakes, and Kindness

July 25, 2026

An 11-year-old girl undergoing leukemia treatment discovered that a simple message taped to her hospital window could bring far more than pizza. It inspired an outpouring of kindness from local businesses that wanted to brighten her days and remind her family they were not facing the journey alone.

Credit: WKRC Local 12

Emmalee Wilkins, who is receiving treatment at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, hung handmade posters in her room asking for pizza and donuts.

Once photos of her signs began circulating on social media, the community quickly stepped in.

Pizza and sweet treats soon started arriving at the hospital. Snappy Tomato Pizza delivered pizzas, Abby Girl Sweets sent cupcakes, and Bourbon House Pizza owner Mary Brandstetter personally brought food for Emmalee's family after seeing the little girl's request online.

"A little girl asked for pizza on a poster board in her window," Brandstetter said. "So we were like, 'Of course. Of course we're going to go.' She asked for a pizza. It's a little girl. Why not?"

For Brandstetter, the visit became much more meaningful than simply dropping off a meal. After speaking with Emmalee's mother, she reflected on the experience with emotion.

"I still have chills," she said. "It means a lot. It makes you think that the little struggles you have in your life right now don't even compare to what this mom... is going through. It just makes you feel so good to be a small part to help them in that situation. We're all praying for her and rooting for her."

She added that Emmalee's mother described her daughter as "a strong little cowgirl."

Some of the deliveries caught Emmalee completely by surprise.

When asked how it felt knowing complete strangers had seen her signs and wanted to help, her answer was simple.

"It makes you feel good."