Rally Kid Charley Research Fund

Charley Elise, lovingly known as “Baby Charley,” passed away on November 8, 2019, at the age of six in Pensacola, Florida, surrounded by her family. Born on August 13, 2013, Charley was known for her bright smile, contagious laughter, exceptional manners, and joyful spirit. She loved simple pleasures—tearing paper and cardboard, swimming, riding in her wagon, listening to music, laughing at silly sounds, visiting Starbucks, and spending time with her big brother and her dog, Coco. At just three months old, Charley was diagnosed with Pilocytic Astrocytoma of the hypothalamus, a rare brain cancer, along with Diencephalic Syndrome. Over the next six years, she endured chemotherapy, frequent hospital visits, and three major brain surgeries—two of which she recovered from remarkably well, though the first left her permanently blind. Despite daily challenges including frequent vomiting, seizures, apnea episodes, and an inability to walk, Charley remained joyful, courageous, and full of personality. Her journey was widely shared on social media, inspiring hundreds of thousands of followers around the world. After years of aggressive treatment, her family made the loving decision to transition her to palliative care. Charley passed peacefully in the hospital where she was born. In her six short years, Charley made a profound impact. Her family continues her legacy through Smiles From Baby Charley, supporting families facing pediatric cancer and funding childhood cancer research through the Rally Foundation.