Meet Holly Elliott: WOH for The Wizard of Oz

Support Holly by purchasing tickets to The Wizard of Oz and donating through Venmo @givehopebox.

Our Wall of Hope recipient for The Wizard of Oz is Holly Elliott, a 34-year-old wife, mother of four, and special education teacher. Holly was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer one year ago, just one year after bringing her twin daughters home from the NICU. Triple-negative breast cancer accounts for only about 10% of breast cancer cases and is known for being particularly aggressive. Throughout her treatment, Holly demonstrated remarkable strength and determination. She completed 16 rounds of chemotherapy and, during the first 12 rounds, did not miss a single day of work at King Elementary, where she teaches in a K–2 special education classroom.

She and her husband, Dustin, have been married for eight years and are the proud parents of four children: Grayden, 13, Nolan, 6, and 18-month-old twin girls, Jovee and Austyn.

In addition to being a dedicated special education teacher, Holly is a teacher mentor and a safe place to many of the students at King Elementary. They are grateful for her guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support. Holly is known for welcoming everyone in her classroom. She prioritizes building relationships, teaching kindness and how to be inclusive to all, no matter their differences. Her compassion and heart for others have been evident since childhood. While in elementary school, Holly often chose to spend her recess time helping in a special education classroom rather than joining her classmates outside. Holly’s father served in the Air Force, which gave her family the opportunity to travel extensively before settling in Utah when she was in sixth grade. She has two brothers and two adopted cousins whom she considers sisters.

Holly is also a gifted writer who has openly shared her cancer journey on Facebook under her name, Holly Elliott. Through her words, she has inspired countless people with her honesty, courage, and resilience. She loves photography and enjoys creating beautiful celebrations and memorable experiences for her children. 

On June 3rd Holly underwent a bilateral mastectomy. Holly will now begin radiation therapy and have her final surgery this winter. 

A Few of Holly’s Favorite Things

 • Color: Blush Pink

 • Animal: Whale

 • Restaurant: Garcia’s or Red Robin

 • Musical: Annie

 • Candy: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

 • Song: “Humble and Kind” by Tim McGraw and “Reverie” by Illenium

 • Favorite Character in The Wizard of Oz: Cowardly Lion

 • Favorite Quote: “You can do hard things.”

This quote hangs on the wall of her special education classroom and serves as a daily reminder to both Holly and her students that strength can be found even in life’s most difficult moments.