Scholarships

Alice’s journey toward a career in oncology has been deeply personal. During her freshman year, her father was diagnosed with cancer, which left her determined to contribute to the fight against cancer. She immersed herself in a summer medical program, at Tufts where she conducted lab tests, worked with real data, and explored the field of health sciences—realizing her desire to become a doctor.

Beyond her academic achievements, Reese is deeply committed to giving back. She volunteers at Camp Sunshine in Casco, Maine, where she helps children undergoing cancer treatment enjoy a fun and memorable summer experience.

Her mom told Kaitlyn, “she was the greatest blessing in his story.” And through it all, he demonstrated to everyone what it means to be resilient regardless of the circumstances, to persevere through all adversity and to have fun along the way.

Last year, in Ryan’s second semester of junior year, he was diagnosed with cancer, requiring surgery and chemotherapy. Weightlifting was usually his coping mechanism, but he was unable to continue with weightlifting due to side effects from the chemotherapy. Undeterred, Ryan says, “regarding cancer’s impact on my future goals, it has only fueled my ambitions.”

Bridget witnessed firsthand the importance of a strong support system—both within her family and in the medical field. Her father’s recovery after thyroid cancer included physical therapy, and Bridget, too, has faced significant health challenges, undergoing four shoulder surgeries and extensive physical therapy. Inspired by the dedication of her father’s and her own physical therapists, Bridget has chosen to pursue a career in physical therapy.

Camilo’s father was diagnosed with cancer when he was 13, and losing him left an unfillable void for his mom and him, because while he was growing up, his father was his biggest hero and friend. Camilo says, “I understand now Life is a gift, and my mom is my company, team and best friend.”

Christopher was originally inspired to pursue a medical degree by his younger brother Timothy, who has downs syndrome and is also on the autism spectrum. Then, while in high school, his father was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and spent a lot of time in hospitals. Consequently, Christopher saw first-hand the positive impact physicians have on their patients. Despite the difficult circumstances at the time, he recognized this remarkable environment was the one for him.

Michael’s mother’s ovarian cancer diagnosis upended his family’s world. As his mother’s health declined, he witnessed her resilience in the face of overwhelming odds. In the wake of her passing, Michael was inspired to adopt her mindset in his own life, to honor his mom’s legacy. Michael says, “his mom’s memory serves as a guiding light to never lose sight of what truly mattered: love, family and faith. Her spirit guides him each day in gratitude, resilience, and a commitment to make a difference.

Ian’s journey has been deeply shaped by his family’s experiences with cancer. His mother has battled breast cancer three times—first diagnosed when he was in first grade and most recently during his senior year. Despite these challenges, Ian is grateful for the time he has spent supporting her, accompanying her to appointments, and, most of all, celebrating her victories over cancer. In addition to his mother’s diagnosis, his father has faced skin cancer, while both of his grandmothers have fought cancer.

Nathaniel’s father was diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer, and passed away a year later when Nathaniel was 11 years old. Nathaniel quickly learned how life continued moving forward while he was falling considerably behind. Being out of school for three weeks, and having to move into temporary housing shortly thereafter, left this sixth grader struggling. However, 2 years later, Nathaniel was achieving straight A’s and high honors.