Wishes In Waiting

Rhabdomyosarcoma

I was going to the gym, going to work, I was very active and had a lot of energy. I was able to hang out with my friends and do the things I love. Now I am bedridden the majority of the time and I'm alone a lot and sad. I can't do anything I used to and I'm just trying to hang on and stay positive.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
Going on a tropical vacation so that my whole life doesn't have to be just cancer. So I can still enjoy some things that I love. So I can try to live a normal life. Thank you again and I hope you consider me.

B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

Life was perfect before the diagnosis, Just graduated high school and wanted to work to save some money and help my family out. I started working after graduation and really enjoyed being a surveyor rodman and really liked learning new stuff with this job.
Life after the diagnosis has been hard to get used to; I feel like I can't do anything like before without being worried about getting sick, I can't no longer go for a drive anymore due to my seizure, I can't help my family out financially and now I depend on them again.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I would like to travel with my family to Colorado to go see the mountains and see different landscapes that I've never seen before.

Hodgkin's Lymphoma

I turned 18, officially stepping into adulthood. It was supposed to be the beginning of a new chapter-more freedom, more control over my life, and the chance to start becoming the person I always envisioned. It was also my senior year-the final stretch of high school, a time to celebrate, make memories, and experience once-in-a-lifetime moments like prom and High School graduation. But just one month later, everything changed.

One month after my 18th birthday-I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I still remember the moment I found out. A nurse had come in earlier to discuss fertility options for women undergoing chemotherapy. On the surface, I tried to stay calm, but inside, my mind was racing. Did I really have cancer? Was my worst fear coming true? Then the doctor walked in and gave me the answer I had been dreading: I did. I had cancer. In that moment, I felt my body shut down under the weight of the news. Everything I had just gained-my freedom, my future, my plans-felt like they were slipping away. My senior year, my dreams, my control over my own life-it all felt like it was being ripped from me, and there was nothing I could do to stop it.

Losing What I Worked So Hard For
When I was finally able to go home between hospital stays and chemo treatments, I was surrounded by the people I loved, but nothing felt normal. I was placed in home hospital and online learning, which meant I wouldn't be able to attend school, see my friends every day, or meet new people. My extracurricular activities, my role as a student ambassador-all gone. I wasn't able to participate in track and field this season either.
Last year, I ranked in the top 8 best Shot put throwers in the State of Hawaii. All the higher ranked throwers above me were seniors, so this was supposed to be my year to be at the top and my coaches had such high hopes for me.

The hardest loss was a trip I had worked tirelessly for. I was part of STN (Student Television Network), a nationwide media conference where high school students compete and learn from industry professionals. I had poured everything into fundraising for that trip to Florida. I showed up early, stayed late, and worked so hard that by the end, my trip was paid for. This trip wasn't just a school event; it was something I wanted to pursue as a career. This was to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience with my teammates. Our teachers had even included in the itinerary excursions to Disney World and Universal Studios. Florida was supposed to be the highlight of my senior year.

Even after my diagnosis, I still held on to hope that I could go. I told myself that maybe, somehow, I could make it work. But my doctor made it clear: my immune system was too weak to travel. It wasn't safe. I had to let it go. It shattered me.
Chemotherapy, Cinical Trials, and the Fight Ahead When I started treatment, I was given the option to participate in a clinical trial to help
with research on the treatment of Hodgkin's Lymphoma. I agreed, hoping it would help other cancer patients in the future. My treatment plan was two months of standard chemotherapy, followed by either two more months of standard treatment or four months of the clinical trial medications. As of now, I have completed the first two months of chemotherapy. I don't yet know which treatment path I will be assigned.
Chemotherapy took a toll on my body. I was constantly nauseous, sometimes too sick to eat. I struggled with headaches, dizziness and extreme fatigue. The first week after each treatment was always the hardest. But the part I struggled with the most was losing my hair.
Letting Go As a woman, as a person, my hair was a part of me. I tried everything to stop it from falling out, but nothing worked. The first time I saw a clump of hair come out, I felt sick. I avoided brushing it, tying it up to ignore what was happening. When it became too much, I cut it short. My sister, who stood beside me, cut hers too. When I told her how much it meant, she simply said, "It's just hair. I would do anything for you." Eventually, I knew it was time to shave it all off. One night, my entire family helped me cut my hair. Afterward, I stepped away to take a shower, and when I came back, I was met with an overwhelming sight-my dad and my brothers had shaved their heads too. I had never felt so loved.
My twin brother and I have prom coming up, and knowing that my hair-or the lack of it -didn't matter to them made it easier for me to accept it too.
A Different Kind of Gift
This journey has been one of pain, uncertainty, and loss. I lost my senior year. I lost my freedom and events I had planned for. I lost my hair. But through it all, I gained something so much greater.

The love and support of my family, my friends, and the people around me have carried me through this. They have been there to catch me when I fall, to lift me up when I felt like I couldn't go on. They made me realize that, even in the darkest moments, I am not alone. So, even though I missed out on so much, I feel like I was repaid in love a hundred times over. And that is something I will always be grateful for.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
Nik's Wish Request - A Trip to Florida for Disney World & Universal Studios

Through all the challenges this journey has brought, one of the things that keeps me going is the love and support of my family. They have been my rock through every hospital stay, every treatment, and every difficult moment.
One of my biggest dreams is to take a trip to Florida with my family to experience Disney World and Universal Studios together. This past year has taken so much from me-my senior year, my ability to go to school with my friends, and even a trip to Florida that I worked so hard for as part of a nationwide media conference. What I've learned through it all is that while I've lost a lot, I have also been surrounded by so much love.
This trip wouldn't just be about going to a theme park-it would be about making unforgettable memories with the people who have been by my side through everything. I want to share moments of joy, laughter, and adventure with them.
Disney World and Universal Studios have always been places of magic and excitement, and being able to experience that magic with my family would mean the world to me. If there is any way that Nick's Wish could help make this dream a reality, I would be beyond grateful.
Thank you so much for your time and consideration, and for all that you do to bring joy to young adults like me who are fighting cancer.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Before being diagnosed, I lived a normal high school life. I played sports and thought about trade jobs. I had AML previously but went into remission. I started community college so I can be an EMT/paramedic. Then, my AML relapsed and I had to have a second stem cell transplant. I would love to return to my "normal" after treatment.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
My wish is to go to Hawaii

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Before I got diagnosed I was a very independent person that worked as a lab technician for a supplement company with many hobbies. I enjoyed running, doing yoga, Pilates, barre, swimming, painting, reading and traveling. Unfortunately once I got diagnosed I lost a lot of my independence, I had to sell my lease and many of the things I enjoyed doing had to be limited. I'm grateful that I've been responding to treatment well and I know God will continue to restore my life even if it's different from the life I loved before diagnosis.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
Since I loved traveling I would love to take this opportunity to travel with my brother and my mom to Hawaii. When I travel I used to go by myself or with friends, I would love to make some memories with my loved ones since we all love the beach and learning about different cultures.

Ewing Sarcoma

My life before I was diagnosed I was active, social, working full time, doing school, earned medical assistant certification and started working towards my dream job. After my diagnosis my life had changed drastically. I lost my right scapula (due to a tumor) which made me lose my right arm mobility which happened to be my dominant arm. Due to chemotherapy suppressing my immune system my social life and activities have stopped. I'm not allowed to work during this time. January of this year I relapsed and this time the tumor was on my spine. it took away my mobility to walk for a few days but I'm 90% back to walking normal. I just finished my third chemotherapy with the relapse. My next step is radiation. To sum up my life after being diagnosed, it's difficult for me and my family. We take it day by day and try to stay positive.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
New York during Christmas time, my favorite holiday is Christmas and New York during Christmas time has always been a dream vacation for me.

Stage 4 Breast Cancer

Before my diagnosis I enjoyed going out with family and traveling. I have a passion for fashion and enjoyed creating pieces from scratch. I was very active in my church and enjoyed being a part of outreach activities. Since being diagnosed I have not been able to enjoy the things I love, due to the toxicity of my chemotherapy. I still try my best to show up for myself and family.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I am thinking about the family trip because I want to make as many memories with my family as possible. I want to enjoy a nice sunset on the beach with my family without worrying about cancer.

Stage 4 Hodgkins Lymphoma

I lead a very active lifestyle as a freshman at Texas Tech University before I was diagnosed. I was an active member of the PIKE fraternity and Student Government. I also worked at the Mechanical Engineering Dept. I enjoyed playing basketball and football with my friends. I was diagnosed the summer after my freshman year. I was forced to stay home and was unable to attend classes full time and in person my sophomore year. I also was unable to work or participate in any activities I used to prior to my diagnosis. My physical health has deteriorated and some days I don't even have the energy to get out of bed. I am currently in remission and will be having a bone marrow transplant. I look forward to a healthy future. Thank you.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I really love sports. I have coordinated baseball and football drafts with my friends since high school and still continue to do it now. I even coordinated for the first time a flag football league at Tx Tech University within my PIKE fraternity all while home sick. I was hoping to attend a major sporting event and possibly meet my favorite players. My favorite baseball team is the NY Yankees. My favorite football team is the Buffalo Bills. My favorite basketball team is the Oklahoma City Thunder. I really would be appreciative for any wish that you might offer.

Breast Cancer

I was diagnosed when I was newly 23 years old with an aggressive form of breast cancer. I was diagnosed at the most exciting part of my college career - to graduate with a degree in Occupational Therapy Assisting. I went from studying and learning all things OT to studying and learning all things breast cancer-related. I have been on a leave of absence from school while I finish my treatment. I still have maintained my love for art and creativity during the difficult times and look forward to the end of my treatment coming up on the horizon so I can finish school and continue in my career to help others.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
My wish would be to go to Hawaii with my Mother and my Grandmother because of their endless support during my cancer journey. We love going on trips together but haven't been able to in some time. We could only ever dream of going to Hawaii. This would give us the opportunity to have time together to relax without worrying about appointments, medical bills, etc.

Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor

I was an average teenager going to a private school thanks to my grandparents paying for it because in public school I got teased because of my weight. I had game nights with my friends. Just graduated high school when I started having back pain. Went to urgent care and was told I have a rare type of cancer with only 200 cases in the world and there's no cure. It's been hard doing chemo 33hr surgery. Then radiation and chemo again with lots of infections and ups and downs.I haven't even gotten my driver's license, or had a girlfriend.i spend most days in the hospital or at home with my 16 yr old doxie. It's hard watching my friends move on with their life's while I'm stuck being sick all the time. It's really hard on my parents, they took the diagnosis hard, and it's been really hard financially on the both while they have to work and drive 200 miles to Seattle every week for my appointments and hospital stays.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
My wish would be for me, my mom ,step dad, and dad to go on a vacation

Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Before being diagnosed I felt as though I was completely free. I went to school, I went to work, I went anywhere and did anything. I was happy and content with my life and I loved my routine. Having that freedom and trust in my body was the best feeling.
After my diagnosis, I felt and still feel that I will never be able to fully trust my own body again. Your body is meant to keep you alive, not hurt you. I had to drop my college classes and quit my job. I was completely isolated in the hospital at times. I'm very grateful my family was there for me.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I would love to go on a shopping spree with my family. My Mother and Brother helped me so much when I was in the hospital and I would be grateful to go on a shopping spree with them. We would buy anything that caught our eye, whether that be clothes, furniture, accessories, or some games/toys.
We've never had a lot of money to just treat ourselves and I want to do that for myself and my family.

Neuroblastoma

Before cancer I was an average college student. I lived in my apartment that was walking distance from campus, with my girlfriend and roommate. I was pre-med with a philosophy major, and was working on getting my masters in bioethics. Alongside school I worked third shift at a 24/7 diner, and spent my free time out with friends or catching up on my reading. I loved reading, camping and spending time with family more than anything else. I've always loved being a student, and it was what I succeeded at. In high school I graduated early, and as valedictorian, so studying and learning was definitely a passion of mine. However, about a week into junior year, I had to go to the ER for severe abdominal pain. After initial testing, we discovered that I had a large tumor on my adrenal gland and that the prognosis was not great. I was nineteen at the time of my first diagnosis. Within a month the doctors scheduled and attempted resection of what they thought was a rare adrenal tumor called ACC, however after getting a look at the thing, we discovered it was not. My first diagnosis was wrong, I instead had Neuroblastoma- a 1 in 10 million cancer to be found in people over the age of 4. Because of its rarity and aggressiveness, my prognosis became even more poor. After six rounds of chemo, a second successful resection, 14 rounds of radiation, two stem cell transplants, one relapse and 5 rounds of immunotherapy I am finally at where I am today. With more immunotherapy to come, as well as oral chemo for quite some time, it is looking like I can finally recover from my disease. I was 19 when I was diagnosed and now I am 21. I have so much life to live, and hopefully, so much time to live it.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I would love to see New York City with my fiancee, Lily. We are getting married this fall, and we can't afford to do a honeymoon on our own. I love to cook and we both love food, so I was hoping to try Thomas Keller's restaurant Per Se while I'm there. Neither of us have been to a restaurant with a Michelin star before, so this would be a huge mark off of our bucket lists. I want to see the art museums, Central Park and everything else there is to see. New York City is the cultural capital of the world, and after being absent from it for so long, it would be amazing to experience so much of the world in just one city. Lily also has some family in Jersey, so it would be a great opportunity for me to meet them for the first time. New York City's huge cultural variety and experiences will be a stark contrast to the mundane reality cancer has been, and nothing would make me happier than the opportunity to honeymoon there with my loving and supportive fiancé.

Rhabdomysosarcoma

Before I was diagnosed, I spent most of my time either working or playing video games. I was a very independent person. My journey taught me to appreciate the things that I have, and the things that I haven't been doing. Since my diagnosis, I have been spending more time with my family and people that I normally don't see often, and I've just been appreciating life.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I want to take a family trip to Tennessee. My family works so hard, and we haven't had a vacation in a very long time.

B-Cell Lymphoma

I was on my way back to school for the Fall semester, when I had to be rushed to the ER with severe pain. Later in the week I was diagnosed with a Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma and a tumor in one of my vertebrates. I had to have emergency spine surgery to stabilize my spine (with 8 titanium pins and rods) and started chemotherapy the same day. I'm now finishing my Chemotherapy treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital under the pediatric oncology team. Treatment has been very aggressive so there has been a lot of ups and downs.

I'm hoping that once I feel better I can return to my normal life. I want to go back to school at UCF but I also would like to be able to do something fun to take my mind off of this terrible period in my life.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?

I am a fishing and auto (cars) enthusiast and I also love soccer. In line with these, I would love to either:

1. Take a fishing trip (anywhere really). Trout fishing would be nice.

2. Go to a car race event or a good auto conference. It could also be an event where I can ride in a nice sports car.

3. Go to an Inter Miami FC game to see Leonel Messi.



Thank you so much for this opportunity. This is a great program for young people like me, giving them a chance to go on with life. I understand resources are limited but I hope I can be granted one of these opportunities.

Osteosarcoma

Before being diagnosed I was in community college studying ASL. I had just been accepted into the University of Minnesota. My plan was to become an elementary school teacher. I had also just gotten my driver's license two weeks before diagnosis.
After diagnosis, pretty much everything changed. I couldn't go to school any longer and I began a very difficult regimen of chemotherapy. I had my left leg amputated and have had 3 lung surgeries. I have had many rounds of radiation and spent countless days in the hospital. I have yet to go back to college. But despite all of this I have remained the positive upbeat person I have always been. I love spending time with my family and pets. Love crafting and I'm an avid reader.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?

I would love to take a sleeper train from Minnesota to Washington state and see Seattle or Portland. Or any train really that travels west and that you can sleep on

Acute Myeloid Leukemia

I had just graduated college and gotten a full time job. I was enjoying living on my own in Birmingham with my best friends, adjusting to adult life.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?

East coast tour of major zoos and aquariums because that's always been on my bucket list. I also like the idea of an Alaskan cruise.

ALL

Before diagnosis I had planned on moving to Iowa for college and become a wildlife biologist. I was going to work in nature with animals and fish. I had dreams of owning land, building a house, having children, and owning horses. I was going to be able to run, crawl, jump, ride, drive, and be independent doing all the things most other people can do.

My future life has also changed dramatically. I am no longer able to have children. My bones are dying with avascular necrosis (AVN) causing serious pains and mobility struggles and a future expected to be confined to a wheelchair. No more horse riding, no more dreams of a house with multiple floors, no more driving any vehicle I want. My life is now filled with durable medical equipment, motorized wheelchairs, a walker, and adult depends. During my treatments I contracted mucor fungal infection and needed two brain surgeries to remove it causing brain damage and full right side neuropathy. I can't think straight all the time. My hands are shaky so my writing is poor. I had to relearn how to walk, draw and write. I have a future full of nonstop medical appointments and joint replacement surgeries. Life is hard and at times I wish I wouldn't have survived cancer because my life after cancer is devastating.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I would love an ultimate Orlando Florida trip. Discovery Cove, Universal Studios, and Disney would be amazing. I don't know how much longer my body will be able to handle rides and swimming so I want to take advantage of it all while I can. I have been dreaming of going to Harry Potter world at Universal since I was little and heard it was being built but have not had the opportunity to go. Discovery Cove I have heard is an amazing and safe way to swim with dolphins so I would really, really want to be able to enjoy that with my family. When I was about 6 years old we went to Disney but I don't remember it at all so I would really like to experience it again. Unfortunately, my mom lost her job due to my cancer and we can't afford any vacations but after all that my mom, myself, and the rest of our family have gone through we really, really could use a trip to get back to being a full family again.

Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor

Before my diagnosis, my life was amazing. I was a typical busy college student. I would attend class, spend time with friends, and attend different campus events. I am a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, and was serving as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the Interfraternity Council. I thoroughly enjoyed how busy I was however. I would leave my house on campus at 9 AM and sometimes not get home until 9 PM, doing everything I could to get the most I could out of every day. After my diagnosis with my very rare form of cancer, my life halted. I had to move back home, and stop doing all the things I loved doing, especially outdoor activities. I love kayaking, rafting, camping, backpacking, and riding my bike around, but I even had to stop those activities. I went from 100 to 0 overnight.


What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?

I would like a surprise between 2 different options if possible


1. Visit all the Utah National Parks as well as attend a Utah Jazz basketball game and potentially meet some players.


2. Attend batting practice and throw out the first pitch at a Cleveland Guardians game, and possibly meet the team.

B-Cell Lymphoma

Just a couple days after my 20th birthday, I first got the news that I might have lymphoma when the doctor's found a 6 cm mass in my mediastinum on an X-ray. After multiple other scans and biopsies, I was diagnosed with Primary Mediastinal Large B-Cell Lymphoma which is a rare and aggressive form of Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. I was just a normal college student preparing to go back for my sophomore year at Purdue University. I thrived on meeting new people and finding my independence away from home.

My entire world was turned upside down by my diagnosis. I had to come home from Purdue just a week after moving in to meet an entire team of doctors and start my treatment immediately as the mass was pressing on one of my airways. My treatments have to be done inpatient for five-six days straight every three weeks which made it difficult for me to stay in school. I ended up dropping all of my classes at Purdue and only took one online course to keep my brain working. At the start of my treatments, I was able to travel up to Purdue often, however, the chemotherapy made me immunocompromised very quickly and I had to fully move home. This left me feeling completely isolated as seeing my friends and family put me at risk for an infection. For the past couple of months, I have spent my days either in the hospital or at home in bed doing puzzles or crafts when I have the energy. I have tried to make it my main goal throughout treatment to stay positive and be grateful for the little things. However, I have struggled a lot mentally trying to cope with what my life now looks like. It's difficult for me to relate to my friends as my life is nothing like what it was before.

Although cancer has taken so much from me, it has also sparked a new passion in my life for nursing. I was originally studying Nutrition and Dietetics at Purdue University but this experience has made me want to pursue a career in pediatric oncology nursing so that I can help others who are going through what I have.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
The wish that I am thinking about is a trip to Hawaii, specifically Maui or Kauai, with my parents and my two older sisters. I have always been passionate about travelling and discovering new cultures so Hawaii has been on my bucket list for a long time. I have always lived in Indiana so things like mountains, snorkeling, and hikes have always been interests of mine. One of the hardest parts about my battle with cancer has been seeing how it has affected my loved ones. My parents will trade off staying with me in the hospital and it has caused one of my sisters, who lives at home, to step up to take care of our other dog and do more housework. My other sister teaches kindergarten so even though she lives 10 minutes away, I haven't been able to see her much due to the risk of her carrying a virus from being around kids. I think a trip like this would help my family experience a sense of normalcy for the first time since August and give everyone a chance to relax. We have all been in a constant fight or flight mode so I know that an experience like this would bring so much joy and hope back into our lives'. I know this is a big ask but even just airfare or the accommodations would help to make this dream a reality.

Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Before my diagnosis, my life was my own. I was busy with classes, working, involved in extracurricular activities and preparing for the next big chapter of my life: college. Since the age of ten, I knew I wanted to be a singer and decided to take a gap year, to train and prepare for auditions. Little did I know, my life was about to turn upside down. Shortly after my graduation, on August 12, 2023 I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

I'm still young and have much to learn, but I feel as though I've gained more knowledge and perspective of myself, family and life in the past year than I have in the last nineteen! There are a number of lessons I've taken away from this experience, but the most important to me are how you respond to difficulties and use them for positive growth. As difficult and trying this journey has been, it has in its own way been a blessing. I look back now and wonder how and why I could have viewed my diagnosis as a sentencing. If anything, it lit a fire beneath me. It has shown me how strong and resilient I truly am. It has forced me outside of my comfort zone and required me to take a leap of faith. It has made me realize, "the test" or "lesson" is not so much the obstacle you face, but the journey you take. However, there were still times when I wanted nothing more than to give up. Between the countless doctor's appointments, hospitalizations, chemotherapy and procedures, I felt there was no light at the end of the tunnel. It wasn't until one of my doctors asked about my future plans, did I realize the window of opportunity hadn't closed.

What will I have to show for one of my greatest triumphs? My cancer journey has given me the depth of character to recognize that my hardships can only define me if I allow them to. With that being said, I hope to not only share my story but use my voice to help lift others as artists such as Lauren Daigle and Emma Nissen have done for me and to give back to the pediatric community. I wish I could say this will be my last obstacle in life but we know that is far from the truth. Life is a frightening, yet beautifully designed mystery; nothing is certain. Our lives are constantly changing- for better or worse- and at times it feels like we'll never be able to catch up. Yet, I take comfort in knowing we possess the ability to endure any hardship and evolve into the person we choose to be.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall in Lauren Daigle's choir. Unfortunately, due to the rehearsal schedule I was not able to explore the city as I had hoped. I would love the opportunity to go back to New York City to see Broadway shows and explore the city like I've always dreamed.

Hodgkin's Lymphoma

I was a mechanical engineering senior and a member of my college marching band before my diagnosis. I had just begun the first rotation of a co-op job and had the rest of my schooling planned out. Then it all changed when I came home one weekend to visit some friends. I was admitted to the hospital for two weeks straight and was away from home for three. Life has been all over the place since my diagnosis. I've been away from my friends and my studies, and it has left me feeling separated and different from my peers. It has also affected my mental health, as I am on anxiety medication now.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I want to visit the John Deere engine and transmission design teams and tour their main production facility. I would like to do this because I grew up on tractors, and I'm an engineering student. For many years, my dream job has been working for John Deere, especially on either of these design teams.

Rhabdomyosarcoma

Prior to my cancer diagnosis, I was an incredibly independent college student who was very active in sports. I not only was on the softball team at my college, I frequently worked out and did various activities around campus. If I wasn't busy with sports or classes/schoolwork, I was hanging out with friends and being social. Due to the placement of a tumor on my spine, I lost the ability to feel my legs over the course of 2-3 days. Surgery was performed to cut out half of the tumor as the other half was too close to the spinal cord to safely remove.

Since then, I have regained most of the feeling in my legs minus some in the toes. That being said, I have been working in physical therapy to relearn how to walk. At this point in time I can ambulate close to 1,000 feet with a walker and around 400 feet with a quad cane. Despite this, I use a wheelchair for longer durations of activity.

The inability to ambulate on my own has greatly impacted my independence as well as my mental health. This is due to having to rely on others to assist me with basic tasks and things I used to be able to do on my own. I am no longer able to go out and about on my own, which can make planning things stressful. Coordinating with people who want to do things has become challenging as we need to ensure certain activities are accessible, and if they aren't we have to look at the logistics of my mobility with a walker or cane as alternative solutions.

As I regain strength and confidence at physical therapy, I am able to do more of these suggested activities. However, the mental aspect of being unsure of what life will look like for me is straining. I do not know for sure that I will ever walk on my own again which is hard as a young adult who has been seen using a walker and told "you're too young for one of those".

As for the effects of chemotherapy, the scars are more mental and internal. Going through the stages of chemo where you lose your hair, then lose significant weight will forever weigh on my mind. I also have a significant size patch on my head where my hair isn't growing back well. This is due to radiation of a tumor on my skull that I was told six months after the fact was :"just below the dose to cause permanent baldness". As a twenty year old girl that was like being told I'd have to rock the same haircut as my grandpa for the rest of my life, even though my radiation doctor is confident it will grow back in time.

Overall, my quality of life post cancer diagnosis is significantly different than it was two years ago. I am behind all of my friends in school due to the course of treatment I had mixed with the necessity to relearn how to walk, preventing me from taking in person courses. Spontaneity can no longer play a big factor in my day-to-day life. At the end of the day, there is a sizable amount to unpack mentally with a therapist about treatment, physical therapy, friendship/relationship strains, and school factors.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
My initial wish would be to attend a Harry Styles concert and meet Harry in person. Harry's music has been a vital part of my journey as it has helped me through my treatments by helping me to maintain a positive attitude and block out the negative things happening to my body. His music and music in general has been a big influence in my life as it has helped me to get through many of life's trials and tribulations.

If this is not possible, my secondary wish would be a trip to the new Universal Epic and Universal Studios with my family (two brothers and mother). They have been the biggest support to me during
my treatment and in life in general. We are all big fans of all things Harry Potter and my brothers and I love the How to Train Your Dragon movies as well, which is why I chose those specific theme parks. Growing up in a single parent household, we have never been able to go on a family trip due to either money or busy schedules. I would love to be able to do not only something for myself, but for my family/support system as well.

Hodgkin's Lymphoma

WISH: A trip to visit Maui, Hawaii

Before my diagnosis of Hodgkin's Lymphoma, my life was full and meaningful. I was in my senior year of college studying pre-med, passionate about my future in medicine. I enjoyed going out, attending community events at the Gurudwara (temple), dressing up for occasions, working out, and experimenting with new recipes.

In the year leading up to my diagnosis, I began feeling unusually tired and struggled to find joy in activities I once loved. Despite frequent visits to my doctor and dermatologist for persistent skin issues, my concerns were dismissed as psychological. It wasn't until I experienced severe difficulty breathing and began coughing up blood that I was taken seriously. A pulmonologist ordered CT scans and a lung biopsy, which revealed stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma. The tumor had affected over half my right lung and was spreading to my spleen.

Receiving the diagnosis was devastating. With no family history of cancer, I felt lost and overwhelmed. I initially tried to keep the news from my family, but when the oncologist's office called me in, I knew I had to tell them. Their reactions were heartbreaking-my mom cried, my dad was in shock, and my sister tried to comfort me. It was hard knowing that I was the cause of their pain.

Treatment began quickly, giving me little time to process the situation. Chemotherapy was brutal. Having never been seriously ill before, I struggled with the intense side effects. The constant pain made me cry often, and I frequently ended up in the hospital due to severe dehydration, requiring IV fluids. I lost my ability to walk properly, endured immense pain for seven months, and lost all my hair shortly before my 22nd birthday. On top of this, I was put on heart medication and contracted COVID just before my final cycle of treatment. Those months felt like an eternity, and I counted down the days until it was over.

Despite the darkness, my family's support gave me strength. My sister accompanied me to every chemo session, drove me to appointments, and encouraged me to keep going. My mom ensured I had fresh, healthy meals and comforted me with massages to ease my pain. Their unwavering love kept me going, and I am forever grateful.

After completing chemotherapy, I focused on reclaiming my life. Just 20 days post-treatment, I graduated from college and celebrated with my family. A month later, I attended a concert, helped plan my cousin's engagement, and rediscovered my passion for helping others. I started taking neighborhood walks to rebuild my strength. Though I still struggle with balance and mobility, I'm grateful to have the energy to participate in life again. This journey has deepened my faith and taught me to cherish every moment.

I want to visit Maui, Hawaii, as a special gift to my family, especially my sister. She has always dreamed of visiting Hawaii, inspired by her love for Moana. Throughout my treatment, she was my rock, giving me unconditional support. This trip would be a meaningful way to thank her and create beautiful memories with my family in a place we've always wanted to see.

fighting Leukemia

WISH: A trip to Oregon

I was a sophomore at App State, I lived in a small college apartment with my 3 best friends and a cat. I am an EMT for Caldwell County up in the mountains. I lived a pretty normal college life, had a great group of friends, and was doing well in school.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
I want to go on a trip to Oregon with my family, we went there on a family trip when I was about 12/13 and I loved every second of it. However, I had a broken arm at the time so I had to miss out on some of the activities we were doing.

Fighting Germinoma

WISH: DisneyWorld Orlando

Before my diagnosis, I had just graduated High school, and a few weeks later I married the love of my life. I was working full-time building and designing luxury Chicken Coops while I and my wife were busy setting up our new home in the rural mountains of Tennessee. In between work, I would personally work on building an addition to my home for added comfort. Every Sunday I would work the sound booth for my local church.

After the diagnosis, everything went very fast and changed almost immediately. We were required to relocate almost 7 hours away during treatments. My wife, my little sister, and my loving parents (who graciously left their lives to be here with me as well) are now staying in a small 2-bedroom apartment provided by St. Jude. It is cramped, but we are trying to make the best of the entire situation. It's been very hard to walk away from the life I was working so hard to build up.

What Nik's wish are you thinking about and why?
A trip to DisneyWorld Orlando for me and my family. Me, my parents, and grandparents went 13 years ago together before my little sister was born. I would love to experience the magnificent fun and magic that DisneyWorld has to offer once again with my sister (8 years old) and wife as well.

Fighting Hodgkins Lymphoma

WISH: Hawaii

At 19, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma while working as a children's gymnastics instructor and preschool teacher. After six grueling months of chemotherapy, I achieved a six-month remission and resumed my work with children. However, following a tough relapse in June 2024, I had to pause my career again to undergo a stem cell journey. Once my battle is behind me, I plan to continue changing young lives and pursue my education in marine biology with a minor in education.

If granted a wish, I would want to travel with my family to Hawaii. My passion for working with children stems from my admiration for SpongeBob SquarePants and its creator, Stephen Hillenburg. His ability to educate audiences about marine life while making them laugh inspired my love for the ocean and my dedication to bringing joy to children. His work made my fight against cancer easier to endure and gave me strength to persevere.

Fighting ALL

WISH: Get a signed hat from Lionel Messi

I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in mechanical engineering. However, my recent cancer diagnosis has put my career on hold. I underwent a bone marrow transplant about 100 days ago, which has limited my ability to enjoy activities I once loved, like cross country. Financially, my family has faced significant challenges due to the cost of my treatment and the need for round-the-clock care.

Music and TV shows have been a source of comfort during long hospital stays. Two people who have inspired and entertained me through this difficult time are Jenna Ortega, my favorite actress, and Olivia Rodrigo, my favorite singer. It would mean the world to meet one of these incredible women who have motivated me and brought me joy.

Alternatively, as a soccer fan, I would cherish receiving a signed hat from Lionel Messi, who plays in Miami. While I know this might be a long shot, even being placed on a waiting list for this would make me incredibly happy.

Fighting Hodgkin's lymphoma

WISH: Taylor Swift Concert

I was a relatively healthy young adult when I was diagnosed shortly after my 21st birthday. I had just started building my career as a full-time hairstylist and felt I was starting adulthood on a great note. When I received my diagnosis, I was shocked. I was at a different hospital at the time, and the oncologist didn't tell me to bring anyone for support, so I found out alone. Breaking the news to my friends and family was incredibly devastating.

Life since the diagnosis has been tough-keeping up with friends and not being able to work much has been hard. However, I'm fortunate to have an amazing support system, including my boss, a breast cancer survivor, who has been incredibly understanding and supportive through this journey.

I would love to see Taylor Swift during one of her Indianapolis concert dates. By then, I hope to be done with treatment and able to be in crowds again! Taylor's music has been a constant source of comfort throughout my treatment plan, and her concerts align perfectly with my 22nd birthday, making it the perfect way to celebrate.

Fighting Hodgkin lymphoma

WISH: A Nice Vacation

Before my diagnosis, I was like any other young adult-attending college, going to class, and socializing. But after my diagnosis, everything changed. I had to leave school for treatment and move away from my family and friends.

The wish I'm thinking about is a vacation to Hawaii. It would be a much-needed getaway and something to look forward to once I've completed my chemotherapy.

Fighting Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma Type B cell

WISH: A Shopping Spree at The Mall of America

My name is Kailey Peters. I am 19 years old and just recently finished treatment for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma Type B Cell! I was diagnosed one week after my 18th birthday. I had chest pain and horrible acid reflux that I later learned stemmed from a large tumor in my esophagus. I spent half a year with these symptoms, finishing out my volleyball season and later learning that it was all from my cancer. I have a great bond with my family, so I grew up spending a lot of time with them. I also love to spend time with my friends and animals. I played volleyball up until my diagnosis, I was on the Hillsborough Community College volleyball team. I am currently finishing up my AA degree in business administration and will graduate this December! I am going to further my education at Florida Atlantic University next fall. Cancer took a lot of things from me as I had to leave college and live at home during treatment, but I learned a lot of lessons from it. I am almost 3 months cancer free and I am pushing to get back to my old self. I missed out on a lot of opportunities during treatment but I am just more than happy to start doing things I enjoy again!

I am asking for a shopping spree at the Mall of America. I love shopping but rarely do it because it is a want and not a need. Because of this, I don't get new clothes that often. but it makes me so happy when I do! I would feel so blessed to be able to do this, as I would never do it on my terms.

Fighting Osteosarcoma

WISH: Floor Seats to the Coldplay concert in Nashville

Before being diagnosed with cancer my life was busy, I love being busy. I worked every day and if I wasn't working I had plans with my friends. Since being diagnosed that has changed, I started experiencing leg pain in August, and in September I started having to use crutches and my life became very bland. Once I was diagnosed my life was completely different because I also got an above knee amputation less than a month after my diagnosis, but I adapted fast. My friends visit me often, and I get out and do things as much as I can which is mostly golfing, I set myself goals every day to keep me motivated.