Meet Bryton
2026 Scholar
Leukemia Survivor
Thanks to a generous survivorship program grant from Hyundai Hope On Wheels, twenty-three survivors were welcomed into the 2026 Children’s Cancer Cause College Scholars Program, representing both organizations’ strong investment in survivors and belief in their bright futures.
Each of these students receive a financial scholarship to help with academic expenses, and each Scholar commits to undertaking a volunteer project of their choosing related to childhood cancer advocacy.
Bryton was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) when he was 12 years old.
“I was finally reaching the advanced math and science classes I loved when I was pulled out of school,” he told us. “My mom asked if I wanted to drop my advanced classes because of the intense treatment ahead, but I didn’t want to give up on my dreams."
Through years of painful treatments and even a severe case of pancreatitis that nearly killed him, Bryton kept his focus on schoolwork and his goals. He’s bilingual and a certified welder, and he completed an Associate of Science degree program while still in high school.
Bryton is planning to study mechanical engineering at college.
Bryton’s Advocacy Project
During treatment, Bryton faced the scary reality of a global shortage of a chemo drug. The replacement drug caused added pain and suffering — the injections themselves but also the late effect of chemically-induced diabetes. This experience motivated Bryton to become an outspoken advocate for ending drug shortages, in partnership with the Angels for Change organization.
As a College Scholar, Bryton plans to continue spreading awareness about drug shortages and advocating for legislative change.
“No one should be scared that they will not get the medicine they need to survive,” says Bryton.
