Gracie was diagnosed with NF1 when she was just 3 months old. An unusual amount of cafe-au-lait spots popped up just before her two month checkup. Gracie's pediatrician mentioned that it could be NF and Gracie was evaluated at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Gracie's diagnosis was confirmed. There was no history of NF in their family. Gracie developed infantile spazms, or seizures, at 4 months old and a medulloblastoma at 22 months old. In April 2009, the return of a brain tumor prompted massive chemotherapy, radiation and surgeries.

Her family is hopeful that the tumor has been stopped, but also fearful because of the risk of other tumors developing.They are excited about helping with the NF Endurance Team at the Rock 'n' Roll Philadelphia 1/2 Marathon.