|
Boy & Girl of the Year
Eastern Pennsylvania's Boy & Girl of the Year - Philadelphia
The Boy & Girl of the Year are local children battling blood cancers who serve as motivation and inspiration to Man & Woman of the Year candidates in their competition to raise funds and secure the titles.
2012 Boy of the Year
Andrew Clark
Hello everyone! My name is Andrew Clark, and I am a Leukemia survivor. My journey started November 12, 2001 when I was just 3 years old. Nobody can prepare you for what I have endured during my 13 years.
My parents noticed an odd rash developing on my belly. They took me to our pediatrician, and as soon as she saw it she knew something serious was wrong. Two hours later, following some blood work, I was admitted to Dupont Hospital for Children where I stayed for weeks. I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, commonly referred to as ALL.
I underwent treatment and went into remission. I missed my older brother, JP, and all of my friends, because I spent most of my time in the hospital during treatment. Growing up with this disease, I have learned how important it is to never give up and never let a challenge stop you from trying, something I try to enforce to my younger brother, Ryan. There are always new things in life that may seem scary and difficult, but you just have to go for it even if you are shaking with nerves. My family and I have remained strong, and I have learned first hand on how to work together to achieve goals. In addition to fundraising for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, I help my family with an annual fundraiser, The Bull and The Bear Golf Tournament. I hope some day that I can pass on these leadership lessons I have learned as a Division 1 college lacrosse coach.
2012 Girl of the Year
Brynn Henry
Hi everybody! My name is Brynn Henry, and I am 9 years old. I am also a Leukemia survivor. My voyage began when I was only three years old when I was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) on August 26, 2005. This devastating disease was tough on not only me, but my entire family. I started feeling sick a lot and kept getting fevers. My parents noticed that I started limping, and when they took me to our pediatrician blood work showed I had low platelets and hemoglobin.
I began treatment at the hospital and spent more time there than home for quite awhile. It was a very difficult time, and no one should have to endure that type of experience. I was separated from my Mom and Dad and my little sister, Paige. I have been in remission and off therapy for four years. These days I am busy doing the things I love best: playing with my dog, Bella, swimming, reading, and spending lots of time with my family and friends, but eventually I want to be a hairdresser.
Kindness has been a huge factor and lesson I have learned throughout my disease. This is why I am involved in other volunteer work for LLS Team In Training events and Alex's Lemonade Stand. Your kindness will surely help other kids just like me!
