Inspirational Stories

Volunteering for an organization was part of my senior capstone in the Spring of 2021. I wanted to volunteer for an organization that was for the long term and meaningful to me. One of my best friends, who is also my cousin, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in 2020. I felt so helpless and also didn't know anything about AML, so I turned to LLS to educate myself. LLS is an integral factor and I wanted to do my part.

I became a story volunteer, where I had the opportunity to interview and speak with other volunteers and supporters. Their stories and involvement in LLS have resonated and inspired me. We participated in a Light the Night event in October 2021 in my cousin's honor. Even though she was in the hospital and couldn't walk with us, she was so grateful and overjoyed with the contributions raised, pictures, and videos of friends and family coming together to support the cause because LLS was important to her.

Sadly, she passed away on December 18, 2021. Volunteering for LLS gives me a sense of hope in my grief and will continue to be a part of this fight to end blood cancer.