Almost four years ago, I was in second grade. I loved playing football, but I was really tired. I couldn't play as well as I normally could.
Then I got a fever. It came and went for three weeks. I was diagnosed with a virus, then a sinus infection. Then, my doctor ordered some blood work. When he got the results, he called my mom and told us to go to Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital. When we got there, I was stuck with too many needles to count, because no one could access my veins. It was the worst pain of my life.
After a bunch of tests, Dr. Cauff diagnosed me with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. I was scared, and thought that I was going to die. Then I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to play football. I was wrong both times.
Thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff at Joe D's, I was able to return to school, sports and all activities one year after I was diagnosed. Two and a half years later, I finished treatment.
Not all kids who are diagnosed with cancer are as lucky as I am. I am shaving my head in the hope of a cure for all kids.
