I first got involved with St Baldrick's Day working with my dorm in college. Little did I know, that day would have such an impact it would shape the rest of my life. 16 years later I continue to raise money and donate every year because I believe in the cause and I believe in the results.

Working with patients who have cancer has been one of the most gratifying and centering things in my career. As a fellow studying pediatric oncology at the university of Colorado Anschutz campus, I care for, support and treat patients with cancer everyday.

There are some really hard days but there are some amazing days too. Even the hard days, if I'm able to support and give love to a patient or family, in those challenging times, makes it a little easier.

For such a "rare disease", cancer happens too often and is still too fatal. 1 in 5 kids diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. won't survive. For patients that do survive, more than 96% will have some long term, possible life-threatening, effects from treatment by the time they are 50.

The St Baldrick's Foundation is the largest non- profit, non-government affiliated entity that solely focuses on pediatric cancer research, which has been significantly impacted by recent governmental cuts. Each shaved head and every dollar donated, goes toward research for kids with cancer.

This year is my first year in my fellowship in which I will be applying for one of those research grants to study cancer. If I am awarded the grant, I will be able to continue my research project for the next 3 years, studying other possible treatments for high risk neuroblastoma.

Your gift will give kids and their families hope, supporting the best research across the country.
Together, let's give these kids the lifetime they deserve. Thank you for your support!