Anna's Story

Can you tell me again? I want to prove her wrong.” It’s her way of remembering without making anyone feel awkward, a gentle and thoughtful way to make sure she doesn’t miss out on connecting with people. She is very considerate.

The tumor makes it harder for Anna to remember people's faces or names, which would usually make every child feel inferior or inadequate. So, she created this way to cope, all on her own.

Anna is a six-year-old cancer patient, and she’s been coming to the center for two months now. Her two small pigtails are always bouncing as she walks, and her colorful clothes brighten up every room she enters. She has a smile that could light up the darkest day, and she always greets everyone with kindness.

Despite being so young, Anna has an old soul. She has been diagnosed with optic nerve glioma, a tumor that affects the optic nerve, the part of the eye that sends signals to the brain. The tumor can affect her vision, making everything blurry or difficult to see. Sometimes she has headaches or feels nauseous. Despite all this, Anna doesn’t let it take away her joy. She’s always happy to see everyone, always ready to help. If someone looks sad or alone, she’ll walk up to them, take their hand, and ask, “Are you okay?”

It’s incredible how, at just six, she is so aware of others’ emotions. Even though she sometimes feels something is missing, and even though she struggles to remember people’s names or faces, she doesn’t let it be a burden. She keeps trying, never giving up. This perseverance, this effort, gives us courage. It moves us, pushes us to keep going, to fight harder. Because despite her own struggles, Anna is trying her best to be the best version of herself.

Help Anna and her friends through their journey of fighting cancer. Donate now!