Name: Sarah
Diagnosis: Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Home State: Illinois
When Sarah was 14 years old, her family noticed their avid soccer player slowing down on the field, and at school. Sarah was suffering from frequent night fevers; her doctor believed mononucleosis might be the cause. However, after several blood tests, Sarah's family learned it was acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common form of childhood cancer.
Sarah and her family were referred to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Within days, they flew from their home in Illinois to Memphis, Tenn. While at St. Jude, Sarah received a bone marrow transplant and chemotherapy treatments. The family stayed at the Ronald McDonald House for three months, then moved to Target House for their remaining six months at St. Jude.
Through their experience at St. Jude, Sarah's father Chip discovered how the hospital functions, thanks to the help of loyal donors from across the country. "I don't think anyone could realize what life would be like without St. Jude," said Chip. "To wake up in the morning and see that Sarah is still with us and our days are back to normal. We thank God for that and thank everyone for that opportunity."
Today, Sarah is cancer-free, full of energy and returns to St. Jude for annual checkups. Sarah's interests include cheering on her hometown hockey team, the Peoria Rivermen, listening to music and participating in theatre.
