Bailasaan, Age 10 Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Pluck (n) 1. Spirited courage or determination in the face of difficulties.
Bailasaan was diagnosed in Jordan at age three, and still fights her cancer today at age 10. After more than three years of intense treatment, she was ultimately deemed to be in remission. But after her family emigrated to the United States, she suffered a relapse.
Bailasaan’s strength is unmatched, and her spirit, unbreakable. She continues to receive chemotherapy, but she is living her life with resilience as a spunky ten-year-old fifth grader. She enjoys spending time with her friends. She is an incredibly talented artist. She is cheerful. She is funny. She is a fighter.
Brenda, Age 17 Diagnosis: Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
I am so proud.
Your smile was a gift when I was weak.
Your strength carried me when I needed it most.
Mackenzie, Age 4 Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
I am still me.
I am mighty. I am brave.
I am irritable. And confused.
I have good days. And bad days. And days that are somewhere in between.
I cry. And I laugh.
I play. I pout.
I do not know what it means to be a cancer patient. But I'm trying.
And today, I just need you to allow me to be me.
Eli, Age 6 Diagnosis: T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
We can do this together ...
Eli's note to his Nana, just diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Catherine, Age 13 Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
It takes a village.
The expertise of doctors.
The gentle touch of a nurse.
The guidance of social workers.
The surprise visits from friends.
The kindness of strangers.
The helping hand of a neighbor.
The understanding of a colleague.
The support of volunteers.
The love of family.
This journey is long, but you are not alone.
Luis, Age 13 Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)
Step closer.
Cancer isn't contagious. But for kids, there are days when it can feel that way. Treatment may make them look different, but they're not as fragile as you think. So lean in. Hug. Kiss. Squeeze. High five. Don't be afraid.
