" 100 years from now it won't matter what kind of house I lived in, what car I drove, or how much money I had ... what will matter is that I make a positive difference in the life of a child. "

A little about me...

Hi! My name is Kara. I am 17 years old. I am a student, babysitter, and cashier. Some of my hobbies and interests... singing, dancing, skating, listening to music.

Information about my illness...

In 1984, when I was 2 years old, I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia. I was treated at UW Childrens Hospital - Madison. I had radiation and chemotherapy.

My words to others...

My suggestions to other survivors are... Smile a lot. It makes your body think that you are fine. Also, smiling is contagious and you just never know who could use one.

The most important lesson I learned from my experience is... That I am a very strong person and that my mom is not a quitter.

A positive outcome from my experience is... I realize that I can do anything and I know that mom will be beside me all the way. I am intelligent and strong and I can be the best.

" My mom gave me the doll she had when she was little. I named it Andy even though I didn't know she had too. Andy went through all my treatment with me, from getting a hickman catheder to radiation to back pokes to blood work. Mom would decorate my bandaids and I would decorate Andy's."