Life is very precious and should never be taken for granted. I was forced to learn this at a very young age. Additionally, how we choose to live defines our character. I now know that obstacles are meant to be overcome, but also that nothing in life is certain, including our own mortality.
I was first diagnosed with a malignant osteosarcoma in my lower leg bone at age nine. After two subsequent surgeries to remove the recurring tumor, I was faced with a truly devastating prognosis at age twelve. The cancer had spread into soft tissue, and the most aggressive of actions was necessary to save my life. After many agonizing discussions with the medical staff and my family, I agreed with the recommendation to amputate my right leg above the knee on May 17 , 2011 . I completed 2I rounds of chemotherapy lasting nearly 1 1 months with significant permanent hearing loss, and endured the dreaded physical transformation of the chemotherapy drugs, all at the tender age of twelve. However, the lasting challenges still lay ahead.
While the decision to amputate was the most aggressive, preventive action available, it clearly was not a guarantee that the cancer would not return. Although I was educated on the forever impact of walking with a prosthetic and the associated limitations I would face, I did not completely grasp the emotional unforeseen difficulties. However, I was no quitter. I was strong in my faith, and I had ambitions and goals for myself. Looking back, I know I made the right decision, but I still find it hard to grasp how my twelve year old self made a decision that would forever change my life.
Through my physical struggles I faced daily with the cancer, I persevered and was able to maintain top marks throughout my treatments. After treatment, I chose to enroll in the International Baccalaureate program to prepare me for a college experience that will help me attain my ultimate goals in life. I was not going to let my experience with cancer stop me from reaching my highest potential. I am very proud to have consistently applied myself to achieve not only top academic results, but equally importantly to give back to my local community as well as to the hospital where I received my treatments.
I am President of my school’s Key Club chapter; I’m actively involved in NHS; I am a member of National Art Honor Society; and I am an active Team Leader in our school’s Link Crew, which pairs upperclassmen and freshmen together to help them navigate their first year of high school. My involvement in these organizations allows me to be able to give back to those in need, which is something I believe very strongly in, since many kind people were so loving and generous to me and my family when I was in the hospital.
As a result of my experiences, I realize that it is important to evaluate priorities, to press ahead, and to give back to my community. I believe that I have grown more resilient and determined to accept new challenges. All of these hardships I faced have made me a stronger person, and I cannot wait to see what my future will bring.
My struggle with cancer has allowed me to be more appreciative of the life I have. Going through a time where the future is uncertain is very difficult, but it also creates an open mind. Now, I try not to take any days for granted. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and I treat new experiences like the are my last, because now I know what it is like to be unsure of what tomorrow will bring.
Today, I am cancer free and a cancer survivor! My career ambition is to become a doctor with particular emphasis on pediatrics and oncology. I wish to apply my personal experiences towards treating and helping others overcome similar medical challenges. As Jimmy Valvano famously said near the end of his cancer battle; “never give up, don’t ever give up”. Well, I have not and will not, and I look forward to ultimately leaving a lasting legacy.
-Alyssa