Chemotherapy Personal Statement

During the winter of my sophomore year of high school my aunt, whom I am very close with, was diagnosed with stage three ovarian and cervical cancer. She underwent various surgeries and chemotherapy treatments, spent weeks in the hospital, and many more weeks battling the effects of the chemotherapy from home.

After months of unanswered prayers, I decided that I could no longer sit, wait, and hope for her recovery. I had to do something positive; If not for her, than for others in her condition.

This sparked my interest in service. I took initiative to not only become a member of the American Teen Cancer Society, but assume a leadership position. My active participation in cancer research fundraising within my school, and during Relay

for Life, made me feel like I was doing positive things in a very stressful and uncertain time. I was comforted by knowing that the money I was raising was creating hope for cancer patients and their families.

My experiences made me realize that my service did not only help others, but it helped me through a time where I thought hope was lost. It reassured my faith that people were searching for a cure. My zeal for service did not stop after my aunt recovered. My passion burns brighter than ever as I long to help others get through similar circumstances and help them rediscover hope as I have.