11-Year-Old’s Window Signs Spark a Wave of Generosity at Cincinnati Hospital
July 25, 2026
An 11-year-old patient receiving leukemia treatment discovered that her simple window sign could lead to an outpouring of compassion. The sign, which requested pizza, quickly caught the attention of local businesses eager to bring joy and support to her family during their challenging time.
Credit: WKRC Local 12
Emmalee Wilkins, currently at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, crafted handmade posters to request pizza and donuts.
After images of her signs circulated on social media, the community’s response was heartwarming.
Deliveries of pizza and desserts soon followed. Snappy Tomato Pizza provided pizzas, Abby Girl Sweets sent cupcakes, and Mary Brandstetter, owner of Bourbon House Pizza, personally delivered meals for Emmalee’s family after noticing her appeal online.
“A little girl asked for pizza on a poster board in her window,” Brandstetter shared. “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?”
The visit became more than just a meal delivery for Brandstetter. After speaking with Emmalee’s mother, she was moved by the encounter.
“I still have chills,” she expressed. “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.”
Brandstetter also noted that Emmalee’s mother described her as “a strong little cowgirl.”
Many of the surprise deliveries brought unexpected joy to Emmalee.
When asked about the impact of strangers responding to her signs, she simply said, “It makes you feel good.”
