Meet Emily
2026 Scholar
Sarcoma 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.
Emily was diagnosed with CIC-DUX4 sarcoma the summer before high school. This extremely rare and aggressive type of soft tissue sarcoma has fewer than 200 known cases worldwide.
Treatment began with surgical removal of the tumor, followed by chemo so aggressive that it induced heart failure, a stroke, and sudden cardiac arrest. Emily was placed on life support. She spent nine days without a pulse, and 27 days in a coma.
“My family did not know whether I would survive or regain consciousness,” she said.
She did survive. She spent the next six months in the hospital and a rehab facility, relearning basic functions.
Today, she’s studying English at California State University with the goal of one day teaching.
“I am grateful to be in remission and focused on continuing my education while maintaining regular medical follow-up and recovery.”
Emily’s Advocacy Project
Emily previously partnered with her high school biology teacher and oncologist to speak with high school students about the science of cancer, the patient experience, and the importance of research and advocacy.
As a College Scholar, she plans to continue that work and hopes to expand the presentation to other local schools, combining science and storytelling to help spread awareness about childhood cancer to as many students as possible.
“Sharing my experience allows me to turn a difficult chapter of my life into something meaningful by helping others better understand the realities of cancer and the challenges survivors often face,” says Emily.
