Stories we carry with us.

In January 2015, Riley developed a sore in her mouth and swollen gums. After a series of appointments, her family learned she had leukemia at eight years old.

Riley was diagnosed with AML and spent months in the hospital. She reached remission in May but needed a bone marrow transplant because of the aggressive nature of the disease.

After her transplant on June 16, 2015, Riley developed graft-versus-host disease and suffered respiratory arrest on August 20. She was intubated and remained in the ICU until she passed on October 7, 2015.

Riley is remembered as a joyful, caring little girl who said every day was “the best day ever.” Her family remains grateful for the support from CHAMP and the community.

Kristy began experiencing severe back pain and, after an MRI, her family learned the mass was cancer. She was diagnosed with myoepithelial carcinoma in May 2013.

Over the next four and a half years, Kristy endured more than 30 rounds of chemo and radiation, plus clinical trials. Through it all she stayed positive and refused to let cancer define her life.

Kristy graduated high school with honors, spent time with her family, and cheered on her sister’s softball games whenever she could.

Kristy passed away on September 14, 2016. Her family shares her story so her legacy and love for CHAMP live on.

Wade was diagnosed with Stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma at age 13 after months of unexplained illness. He began treatment at Penn State Children’s Hospital in Hershey.

He endured surgeries, chemotherapy, and MIBG therapy at CHOP, plus multiple clinical trials as his cancer progressed.

In late 2014, Wade’s family was told there were no remaining treatment options. He returned to Hershey for radiation and supportive care as the cancer spread.

Wade passed away from septic shock on November 25, 2015, one day after receiving his high school diploma. He is remembered for his bravery, kindness, and the way he put others first.