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.
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 9-years cancer free.
This year, I competed in my first State Special Olympics competition and won 3 gold medals. My medal picture was featured on the Times Square jumbotron during the New York City Buddy Walk, an event that celebrates Down syndrome awareness. I also attended our local city council meeting to accept the mayor's proclamation that October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, and I even gave a speech! 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.
