SS La Rabida patient, Elena Perez, was selected by Katie’s Art Project—an organization that connects children with chronic illnesses with artists to “create a lasting legacy through art”. Elena and her two sisters had the opportunity to meet with Chicago Hamilton cast members, Gabriella Sorrentino and Jimmie Jeter to collaborate on writing a song inspired by Elena.

Jeter and Sorrentino spent an afternoon getting to know Elena, her family and interests. They played around with melodies on Jeter’s guitar, and had Elena weigh in on lyrics and tempo of the song. “This is going to be a soulful song; I’m impressed,” stated Jeter as Elena playfully sang a line of lyrics along to Jeter’s guitar-playing.

For further inspiration, the group went outside to enjoy the beautiful, spring day. In addition to being inspired by Elena’s contagious personality and sense of humor, Jeter and Sorrentio were visibly in awe of Elena’s grit and positive outlook. Elena was born with her heart on the right side of her chest instead of the left. She also only has one lung. Amazed by her bravery, and unique heart, Sorrentino proclaimed, “The heart of a warrior…That has to go in the song!”

Jeter and Sorrentino will continue to collaborate with Elena on the song, and record it for her family’s enjoyment. In response to the progress of the song, Elena proudly proclaimed, “Put it on iTunes!”