This time of year, folks all over the world are making their lists and checking them twice. In addition to new toys, fun games and socks (well, maybe not socks!), our NF heroes have additional hopes: less chemotherapy, fewer doctors’ appointments, reduced tumor size. At the Children’s Tumor Foundation, we are working relentlessly to fulfill that hope.
When you join the fight to end NF, you are ensuring that those living with NF are closer to a cure. We asked some NF heroes to share their story and their hopes for the coming year.
My name is Destiny, I am 17 years old, and I was first diagnosed with NF2 when I was thirteen, on Halloween day. I was really scared because I had never heard of this disorder before. Since that Halloween, I’ve had six surgeries, to remove tumors from my neck, hand, and head, and undergone six months of chemotherapy.
I live in West Covina, California and go to South Hill High School where my favorite subject is culinary arts. I enjoy reading and watching movies; my favorite book is The Hunger Games and my favorite film is ‘The Notebook.’
Having NF isn’t easy, but I take it one day at a time and remind myself often that I have NF but it doesn’t have me.”
What advice do you have for others facing similar challenges?
My advice would be to never give up, which sounds very cliché but it’s very true. When I was going through chemotherapy I missed a lot of school but I worked hard and caught up.
What’s a success or accomplishment you’re really proud of that happened this year?
One of my accomplishments was helping the Children’s Tumor Foundation by fundraising and volunteering at an NF Walks.
What are you most looking forward to in 2016?
In 2016, I look forward to turning 18 and really starting my life.
What’s one song you will never skip on your playlist?
One of my favorite songs is ‘Cheerleader’ by OMI because I’m a hopeless romantic.
In your own unique way, you can make a difference in the lives of the millions of people worldwide with NF.
Be the one to step up, to make a gift, to educate others… and to play a critical role in the mission to end NF.
Click here and Be The One
