Young Cancer Survivor Dances with Rockettes in NYC Dream Trip

PEORIA, Ariz. — Twelve-year-old Lily Santisi, a dancer from Peoria, recently fulfilled her dream of becoming a Rockette for a day in New York City. This special experience was made possible through Make-A-Wish Arizona, following her recovery from bone cancer.

Lily, who has been a passionate dancer, faced significant challenges after being diagnosed in the fall of 2024. Cancer treatments interrupted her dance routine, forcing her to take a break during which she missed two seasons with her dance team. “Chemotherapy and losing my hair were hard, and not dancing made it tougher,” she shared. Despite these obstacles, her dance studio, The Dance Project, provided support throughout her treatment, ensuring she felt included and connected with her friends.

From Dreams to Reality

The holiday trip to New York City was a dream come true for Lily, who has long admired the Rockettes, especially during their performances in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. “I thought it was always so cool how they could dance like that,” she expressed. The experience included a private dance lesson with two Rockettes, where she learned about the demanding choreography that defines their performances.

“It was really cool and fun. The choreography was harder, but the kicks were really fun to do,” Lily recounted, noting the emphasis on balance and precision during the lesson. This opportunity allowed her to gain insights into the rigorous training that the Rockettes undergo to maintain their high standards.

After her lesson, Lily attended the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, where she was thrilled to see the dances she had just practiced come to life on stage. “There were so many cool dances and costumes,” she remarked, reflecting on the vibrant performance.

A Heartwarming Wish Fulfilled

This memorable trip showcases the mission of Make-A-Wish Arizona, which focuses on granting wishes to children with critical illnesses. Jessica Haag, the senior director of public relations and marketing for the organization, highlighted Lily’s wish as a perfect example of how unique each child’s desire can be. “For Lily, this is a perfect example of a child who has a passion and something she loves,” Haag said.

Throughout her journey, Lily has shown remarkable resilience, and her experience with the Rockettes has only fueled her passion for dance. She returned home with not only new dance moves but also cherished memorabilia, including a bedazzled Rockettes shirt and signed posters from Broadway shows like The Lion King and Wicked.

Lily concluded her reflections with gratitude, stating that the experience made her feel “super special.” The Rockettes imparted valuable advice to her: to keep following her dreams and, importantly, to have fun. As she continues her recovery, Lily looks forward to returning to dance classes later this year while undergoing physical therapy.

This inspiring journey highlights the power of hope and the impact of community support in the face of adversity.