I was diagnosed with AMKL leukemia on December 16, 2013, at just 10-months old.  I spent my first Christmas and my first birthday receiving treatments at St. Louis Children's Hospital.  I do not remember the many months spent in the hospital during my treatments, but my family says my doctors and nurses loved me and nicknamed me "Princess Loren".  I am blessed to be 11-years cancer free.  

This year, I had the incredible honor of having my photo featured on the Times Square jumbotron during the New York City Buddy Walk—an inspiring event that celebrates Down syndrome awareness. In the photo, I’m wearing Alivia, a fashion brand that showcases artwork created by individuals with disabilities, along with the 3~21 Necklace, a piece I co-designed through my jewelry brand, ANKOR, in collaboration with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS).  Every purchase of our collaboration necklace donates 21% of proceeds to NDSS, supporting their mission to promote the acceptance, value, and inclusion for all individuals with Down syndrome.  At ANKOR, we’re driven by a purpose: to design meaningful jewelry that honors the beauty of Down syndrome while also funding childhood cancer research and survivorship programs.

When I am not on the big screen, I enjoy competing in Special Olympics rhythmic gymnastics.  I competed at State this year and won 2 gold medals, bringing my total medal count to 7!  I also enjoy reading, swimming, riding horses, and singing in my school choir.  Sometimes learning and physical activities can be difficult for me, but I have the best friends and teachers that advocate and support me each and every day.

Even though I celebrate being cancer free, the fight against childhood cancer is not yet over.  Research shows an overwhelming majority of childhood cancer survivors will experience chronic health problems or even severe or life-threatening conditions due to the treatments received as kids.  Your support of St. Baldrick' Foundation helps support survivorship and long-term care for patients like me because all children deserve the chance to live a long and healthy life.

Thank you for supporting me and the more than 300,000 kids worldwide who will be diagnosed with cancer this year. By sharing the gifts of your time, talent and money with the St. Baldrick's Foundation, you're supporting research to give all kids with cancer a better chance for a cure.