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Youngest grand marshal ever selected for IPL 500 Festival Parade

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – The 500 Festival has named the grand marshal for the 60th IPL Festival Parade.

Emma Stumpf is a 14-year-old and her story ties in with the theme of the parade this year: Experience the Celebration.

According to the release, Stumpf was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at age 7. She underwent 70 weeks of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation.

After she left the hospital, she decided to make long hospital stays easier for other children.

Emma’s Art Cart was founded to bring art kits to kids that are hospitalized.

After two years, her carts have provided more than 1,500 art kits to children.

“Emma Stumpf is an extraordinary person and we are proud to have her serve as our IPL 500 Festival Parade Grand Marshal during this epic year filled with many milestones,” said Bob Bryant, president and CEO of the 500 Festival. “Emma’s strength and resolve, coupled with her generous spirit and desire to put others before herself, make her an inspiration. Serving as Grand Marshal of one of Indy’s most cherished community events will give us all an opportunity to celebrate her accomplishments and encourage her in her ongoing battle with cancer.”

The parade will take place on Saturday, May 28.