“You can make a difference, no matter your circumstances.” – Izzy Martin
Izzy’s Story
Isabelle “Izzy” Martin was fearless, deeply faithful, and full of life. Born in 2010 in Plano, Texas, Izzy was a dancer from the age of two—creative, determined, and full of heart. She was strong-willed, funny, compassionate, and never afraid to speak up for what she believed in.
At age ten, Izzy was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. What followed were more than two years of treatment, surgeries, and clinical trials—but cancer never defined her. Even in the hardest moments, Izzy focused outward. She volunteered, cared deeply for people experiencing hardship, and used her voice to advocate for children with cancer.
Izzy’s Adventures
Just weeks after placing in the top 12 in the prestigious Youth America Grand Prix ballet competition, Izzy’s life took an unexpected turn. While preparing for her solo, a severe injury would soon be overshadowed by the diagnosis that would alter everything—Osteosarcoma. This diagnosis did not defeat her spirit, though; it only amplified her resolve to fight and advocate.
In the final years of her life, Izzy became an unstoppable force in advocating for childhood cancer research and support for families facing similar battles. Learning how underfunded pediatric cancer research was, she took it upon herself to make a difference, raising over half a million dollars in her last months for pediatric cancer research and support organizations, including Children’s Cancer Fund and the Osteosarcoma Institute.
Her compassion for others led her to help children without the same support she had, making sure they received the resources and care they needed. Through her tenacity and heart, the TeamIzzy Foundation continues her incredible legacy of advocacy and service.
