Bismarck Girl to Ring Cancer Treatment Bell Tomorrow
Eleven-year-old Ultra O'Connell will mark the end of her two-year battle with leukemia on October 16, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Cancer

After undergoing two years of medical treatment at Sanford Hospital, 11-year-old Ultra O'Connell is set to ring the bell signifying the end of her leukemia treatment on October 16, 2026. This milestone follows the successful completion of a celebratory trip to Singapore.
Why it matters
The event serves as a milestone for the young patient following an intensive two-year course of care for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Her journey has highlighted the role of charitable support in providing experiences for children undergoing long-term medical challenges.
Ultra O'Connell successfully finished two years of medical treatment at Sanford Hospital. The patient is 11 years old.
The players
Ultra O'Connell
She is an 11-year-old resident of Bismarck who has been undergoing treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.
Sanford Hospital
It is a major regional healthcare provider in the upper Midwest that offers comprehensive pediatric oncology services.
Make-A-Wish
This nonprofit organization is dedicated to creating life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses.
The details
Following her treatment, O'Connell celebrated with a trip to Singapore, where she visited Universal Studios. The travel experience was organized by Make-A-Wish and supported by donors who contributed through the Wishes in Flight program.
Timeline
Ultra O'Connell received medical treatment from 2024 to 2026.
The treatment completion bell ceremony is scheduled for October 16, 2026.
The Miles for Smiles donation drive is set to conclude on October 31, 2026.
The Big Picture
This story follows the pattern set by the Make-A-Wish Foundation's international travel wish program, which provides a structure for supporting families beyond standard medical care.
This milestone highlights the importance of comprehensive pediatric support systems during long-term cancer recovery. Families navigating similar diagnoses can look toward community-based initiatives and wish-granting organizations for additional support resources.
The takeaway
Completing a lengthy medical journey for a condition like Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia marks a significant transition for pediatric patients and their families. Engaging with local support networks can provide essential encouragement throughout the recovery process.
What happens next
The Miles for Smiles donation drive is scheduled to conclude on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
Find more updates on pediatric care and patient support resources in the Bismarck Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Valleynewslive.










