As a 3x teenage cancer survivor, and founder of my own charity, Kick Cancer Like a Girlboss, my dreams and goals are very similar to what the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation stands for. Not only was I diagnosed with cancer at 15, I had eleven surgeries by the time I was 18, received hearing aids at 16, started the first day of my senior year just 24-hours after a lymphadenectomy and had a major surgery shortly before graduation to treat yet another reoccurrence. What I learned through all this, is that doctors are phenomenal in preparing us for the physical aspects of medical diagnoses, however, we are rarely advised of the emotional havoc that we may experience and little did I know- how hard the next 3.5 years would be for me, but I did it! I made it to graduation! It was through these experiences of my own cancer diagnosis that inspired me to help children emotionally fight for the rest of my life. The emotional rollercoaster is inevitable with a medical diagnosis and as a Child Life Specialist, I will have the opportunity to help kids emotionally and spiritually fight through the storm. When they are feeling anxious about surgery, I can share my battle scars. When they don’t know how to ask certain questions, I can be their voice. And when they are sad and fearful- (John 14:27) I will validate their feelings- all while reminding them just how brave they are. But most importantly, I am inspired to show them how to find joy in the little moments of each day… even when treatments become unbearable. So how did I find my joy when it became too unbearable? Just a few months after my first surgery and during radiation, I created the 501©3 charity, “Kick Cancer Like a Girlboss.” It was through this charity that I turned my pain into a purpose. My purpose gives warriors the unique opportunity to create and design their own custom Converse. Thus far, we have raised more than $60,000 and 650 children have designed their own custom shoes! And the BEST part… meeting the kids! I remember the first time I met 4-year-old Charlie, who was diagnosed with SLC6a1. I gifted him my charity winnings from a local contest, as I knew that money could help find his cure and save his life. I remember meeting Kristianna at the Miss Amazing parade as she rocked her Converse in her beautifully decorated wheelchair. I remember flying to Boston and meeting Addy, who took her first steps in the shoes I gave her. Just three years ago, I didn’t have cancer, or a charity and I didn’t even know what a Child Life Specialist was, but this was part of HIS plan for me. -Jeremiah 29:11 I am blessed to be attending KU to pursue this dream of helping children the rest of my life. Thank you so much for considering me as a recipient of the 15 and Mahomies Scholarship!