Heather is 25 yrs young and a cancer survivor of 8 yrs. She developed Non Hodgkins Lymphoma at the age of 14, relapsed at 16 and recieved a bone marrow transplant. Since then she has recieved 3 total hip replacements due to late effects of all the treatment and medications. She is such an inspiration to all who meet her. She has a contagious smile that everyone just loves. While she was going through her treatment there just didn't seem to be a place where teens fit in. Either it was for much younger children or older adults. Heather was unable to attend high school where teens experience socializing with their peers. It was very difficult to go through cancer with no peers to talk to. When she was 18 she joined The Wellness Community and help start a teen group. She continues to be active with The Wellness Community Teen Group now as a volunteer. She works closely with the Teen Group Coordinator helping plan events, designing the flyers for upcoming group meetings and attends the group meetings to bring inspiration to other teens who may be going through treatment or have completed their treatments. Heather has battled cancer with many drawbacks but has won the battle! She has her battle scars to remind her of the war she fought and won! Heather doesn't let that get her down, it makes her stronger. To look at her now you would never imagine what she endured. She continues to have some side effects and pain due to the late effects, but her faith in God always gives her the strength to continue.

Signed,
Sue Bongiolatti