During treatment, I faced numerous complications, including a near-death experience, a month-long vegetative coma, a stroke that left me paralyzed from head to toe, multiple central nervous system infarcts, and a severe infection (Klebsiella cellulitis) that required the removal of my portacath. I spent an entire year in the hospital and underwent intensive therapies to relearn fundamental skills like talking, walking, eating, writing, and performing daily tasks. My cognitive abilities during this time resembled those of a four-year-old. Simultaneously, I endured 15 different types of chemotherapy and various invasive procedures. With the unwavering support of therapists, medical staff, my family, and God, I rehabilitated and eventually completed treatment in 2006—or so we thought. 

Just six months later, at age 13, I suffered a Central Nervous System (CNS) relapse. Blurred vision in my right eye led to the devastating discovery that the cancer had returned. This time, treatment involved chemotherapy and radiation targeting the tumor in my right eye. Despite the heartbreak, I approached this battle with determination, leaning on the familiarity of the hospital routines, caregivers, and treatment procedures. My mindset was clear: “If I got through it the first time, I will get through it again.” In 2008, at age 15, I completed my second round of treatment. It was a day of triumph, marking the end of five years in and out of the hospital. 

Being declared “cancer-free” was a relief, but I soon realized that childhood cancer is a lifelong diagnosis. Surviving treatment is only the beginning; survivors face a lifetime of potential late effects. My journey left me with various health complications, including vision issues, dental problems, psychosocial challenges, learning disabilities, and, in 2019, an epilepsy diagnosis related to my treatment history. These experiences inspired me to take action and raise awareness. 

This motivation led to the creation of BeholdBeGold, (pronounced ‘Behold-Be-Gold’), a supportive platform and empowering movement dedicated to educating others about the long-term effects of childhood cancer. It also provides a safe space for survivors to share their experiences. As survivors, we refuse to be defined or limited by late effects. Instead, we draw strength from them, embracing life’s challenges with gratitude and resilience. We celebrate our victories, share our stories, and inspire others to do the same. 

At BeholdBeGold, our mission is to empower childhood cancer survivors facing the late effects of treatment by sharing experiences, knowledge, and inspiration. We aim to foster positivity, ambition, and resilience while raising public awareness about the long-term challenges survivors face and advocating for meaningful change. 

Over the past five years, BeholdBeGold has made a meaningful impact on survivors and their families locally, nationally, and internationally. Through services such as education and awareness campaigns, advocacy and policy efforts, health and wellness support, resource referrals, community partnerships, research and data collection, and international engagements, we aim to empower survivors, foster understanding, and build a compassionate community. 

BeholdBeGold envisions a world where childhood cancer survivors are celebrated, supported, and understood. We strive to create a future filled with hope, healing, and resilience, where survivors and their families feel connected, inspired, and never alone on their journey. 

By sharing my story as an Honored Kid with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, I hope to inspire others to join the fight against childhood cancer. Every survivor’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of community, and I’m proud to be part of a mission that brings hope to families, raises awareness about the challenges survivors face, and funds critical research to find better treatments. 

Together, we can ensure no child fights cancer alone. Whether it’s attending events, fundraising in honor of survivors like me, or advocating for change, every effort makes a difference. I invite you to stand with us as we strive for a future where all children can thrive beyond cancer. Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping to create a brighter tomorrow for survivors everywhere.