When Emma Ryleigh Dixon, known as "ERDie," was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma at just 12 years old, her parents, Jeni and Charlie Dixon, never imagined the devastating journey they were about to face. Over the next 27 months, Emma endured chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, and clinical trials, always with a bright smile and a fighting spirit that inspired everyone around her. Tragically, Emma passed away in April 2022, but her parents were determined to ensure her legacy would live on. In honor of their daughter, Jeni and Charlie founded The ERDie Project to raise funds for pediatric bone cancer research and to provide financial assistance to families in similar situations.
The ERDie Project was born out of their heartbreak but also their unwavering commitment to making sure that Emma’s life and fight were not in vain. “Emma was our hero,” Jeni shares. “We want her legacy to help bring about a cure for pediatric bone sarcomas, and to ease the burden on families dealing with this cruel disease.” Through the ERDie Project, they are funding critical research at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt and providing assistance to families affected by childhood bone cancer. In 2024, they raised over $130,000 at their annual golf tournament, which helped launch the Emma Ryleigh Dixon Endowment Fund, aimed at advancing research into pediatric bone cancers.
Emma’s memory will also be honored with a room dedicated to her at the hospital, where she spent so much of her time during her treatment. "The staff at Vanderbilt were incredible, making her feel comfortable and respected at every stage of her journey," Jeni says. "We want to honor their care and Emma’s spirit with a room that can help others who are facing what she did."
How You Can Make a Difference
Join the fight to end pediatric bone cancer by attending the Nourishment to Flourish Lunch & Learn event on January 23rd at The Arcade in Lebanon, hosted by Lebanon City Lifestyle. All proceeds from this event will benefit The ERDie Project, helping to fund vital research and support services for families facing the battle against childhood bone cancer.
Get Involved
To learn more about the ERDie Project or to donate, visit theerdieproject.org. Your support can make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families affected by pediatric bone cancer and help ensure that Emma’s legacy continues to inspire hope and change.