Grace Ekis, 5, whose battle with cancer captured the hearts people across the region, died at home Feb 14.

Grace, the daughter of Tamara and Brian Ekis of North Huntingdon, was diagnosed in January of 2007 with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, a rare form of brain cancer. The location of the tumor made an operation impossible, so Grace's battle included chemotherapy and radiation and constant visits to the hospital.

Although the disease and the attempted treatments took a toll on Grace, her indomitable spirit and unfailing cheer touched and inspired those who witnessed her battle. The community rallied around Grace, sponsoring numerous fundraisers to help pay for her treatment.

A group of seniors at Woodland Hills High School came together and held a race to raise money for Grace's family and Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, where Grace received treatment.

Neighborhood children set up a lemonade stand to raise money, students at a dance studio Grace had attended went door to door in North Huntingdon asking for donations and a North Huntingdon resident raffled off his extra Hannah Montana concert tickets to benefit Grace.

This summer, a White Oak-based nonprofit that benefits children with severe illnesses held a special princess-themed birthday party for Grace. The party at Pluma Restaurant in North Huntingdon offered almost everything a young princess could ask for -- Shriners clowns, an ice castle sculpture with her name courtesy of Mastro Ice, two princess cakes from Moio's Italian Pastry Shop, balloons, an inflatable jumper and games.

At the Norwin 2007 Relay for Life, Grace cut the ribbon on the track, led participants out for the first lap and led the final lap of the event. Her team, Amazing Grace, walked continuously over the 24 hour event to raise funds for cancer research.

Although Grace's family only recently had moved to North Huntingdon, she inspired the community. Natalie McCracken, the principal of Sunset Valley elementary, where Grace attended kindergarten, said Grace's spirit had touched everyone there.

"It's been a very sad loss for the entire Sunset Valley community," she said. "Her amazing, infectious spirit touched so many of us."

In a written statement, Grace's parents said she "traveled her journey with great spirit and inspiration, teaching so many about love and life in her short time. Her infectious spirit will live on in the hearts of many."

At Grace's funeral on Monday, Hannah Belmonte, a Woodland Hils High School student who helped organize the race there, sang "Amazing Grace." Gray ribbons, which represent brain cancer awareness, were distributed to visitors.