In the summer of 2007, just before her tenth birthday, Clare was diagnosed with osteosarcoma—an aggressive bone cancer in her right femur. Almost overnight, her world shifted from carefree days to hospital rooms and treatment plans.
She was admitted to Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital, where she began intensive chemotherapy and prepared for complex reconstructive surgery. Her doctors removed the tumor, along with surrounding bone and muscle, and rebuilt her leg using an extendable titanium rod.
The road that followed was far from easy. Clare spent eight more months in and out of the hospital, enduring grueling rounds of chemotherapy and the physical toll of recovery. During treatment, Clare found an unexpected source of comfort. Every Tuesday, she looked forward to clinic visits—not for the medicine, but for time with integrative therapists funded by Hope & Heroes.
The integrative therapists’ soothing massages and calming aromatherapy brought Clare relief and peace. “I was still scared of needles,” she admitted, “but I found comfort in acupressure and relaxing massages. The therapist helped me improve my mobility and strength. I felt safe, supported, and empowered—like I was an active part of my recovery.”
When treatment ended a year later, Clare hoped the hardest part was behind her. But recovery brought its own challenges. “I never imagined that surviving cancer would bring its own set of struggles, like anxiety and depression—so common for childhood cancer survivors,” she said. “But Hope & Heroes helped me navigate those dark moments.”
Hope & Heroes continued to support Clare long after treatment ended, offering care that went beyond her physical health. “Through Hope & Heroes, I was able to meet with a psychiatrist, a nutritionist, and more integrative therapists who showed me that recovery was about the mind, body, and spirit,” she said.
Looking back, Clare reflected that the real impact of Hope & Heroes wasn’t just about surviving cancer.
“The real power of the program funded by Hope & Heroes wasn’t just in helping me survive, but in helping me heal and thrive,” she said. “I’m grateful they gave me the tools to take control of my health, my recovery, and my future.”
Join Clare in helping to raise awareness and support for local children with cancer or blood disorders. Consider making your tax-deductible gift to Hope & Heroes today.
