Eleven-year-old, Misheel is known as the “balloon girl” around the halls of St. Jude. Her colorful balloon animals are a favorite for other kids battling cancer, just like her.

In the summer of 2023, Misheel’s parents noticed she was constantly thirsty no matter how much water she drank. She began frequently excusing herself to go to the restroom, which started to raise concerns.

Misheel’s mom, Undrakh, took her to their family doctor. Tests revealed a tumor on Misheel’s pituitary gland, as well as two other spots in her brain. She was diagnosed with a type of cancer called mixed germ cell tumors and was referred to St. Jude.

While in treatment, a family friend visited Misheel and taught her the art of balloon-making. She started by learning simple designs and soon taught herself to make more complex figures.

It wasn’t long before Misheel realized she could cheer up her fellow cancer patients with her newfound talent. “I don’t know why, but I just like seeing people’s faces happy,” said Misheel.

Even on tough days when it’s hard to keep a brave face between treatments, Misheel did her best to stay positive.

Those days were hard, but she tries to find a way to make it better. She’s like, ‘It’s OK because you’re trying to help me.’ That’s who she is. She just wants to show the brighter side of everything and just wants to be happy.

—Undrakh, Misheel’s mom

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