I first joined Blood Cancer United in my sophomore year of high school. I did not know much about blood cancer at the time, but that would soon change because, at the same moment I was learning about Blood Cancer United, I also reconnected with a childhood friend. This friend would have a significant impact on my life from that point on; we were always together, just like when we were kids. At that point in time, I thought it was just random that we had reconnected, but I soon came to realize God put us in each other's lives for a reason.
My friend was diagnosed with leukemia at the beginning of our junior year. I remember that phone call like it was yesterday, the first time I had cried to my dad since I was four. I drove to the hospital to be with her, and quickly learned the new reality she was facing. I spoke with her father, and he told me about her diagnosis. I knew that the only thing I could do from that point on was be there for her. So, every chance I could, every time I was able to go see her at the hospital, I would go, and I’d make sure to bring her something special, whether that was her favorite Sonic drink or a dinosaur plushie. I wanted to see her happy.
She left Vegas to find better treatment, and it got hard for us to communicate. The fatigue from treatment made it hard for her to talk on the phone. I understood this and would send messages anyway, just for when she could be on her phone. These months were tough; I was unable to visit her where she was because of family issues, and it was hard to communicate that. My biggest regret is not being able to be there for her the way I wanted to. She deserves the world, and I gave her a dinosaur plushie in a hospital room.
So, I’m fundraising for Blood Cancer United to make up for that. I’m doing it for her and all the other people who are fighting this disease. I want them to know they are not alone and that so many people are thinking about them and fighting with them for a cure. I’m joining Blood Cancer United again as a senior and student leader. I’m also joining with a new perspective and mission.
Livvie
Friend and advocate
