Meet Emma, 2025 Scholar

Thanks to a generous survivorship program grant from Hyundai Hope On Wheels, twenty-two survivors were welcomed into the 2025 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.

Emma’s Story

“At five years old, my mom discovered a growth in the back of my throat,” Emma told us. “After doctor’s appointments and a surgery scheduled immediately, I was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a tumor that was growing in my soft palate and down my throat.”

Emma’s treatment involved 40 weeks of chemotherapy, plus radiation. Despite spending a lot of time in the hospital due to a wiped immune system, Emma says it was manageable. She was able to join her kindergarten class and live a somewhat normal life.

She was declared cancer-free, but the victory was short-lived. She relapsed at age seven and would need another 50 weeks of chemo and 33 additional radiation treatments.

“The following year of treatment would be harsh, sickening, and extremely tough,” she says. “I spent half of the year in the hospital due to sickness, infections, and burns from radiation.”

“Cancer was my childhood, and it controlled my life, but now I stand as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This year I will celebrate my 10th year being cancer-free, and I am looking forward to using the determination and strength gained during my fight to make my future a bright success.”

Emma will be attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she plans to study psychology.

Emma’s Advocacy Project

For her volunteer project, Emma is creating a scholarship spreadsheet to share with other cancer survivors.

“I’ve personally experienced the challenges that come with navigating the transition from treatment to adulthood. One of the most significant hurdles for many survivors is accessing financial support for higher education,” she says.

“Despite the growing awareness of childhood cancer, many survivors are unaware of the scholarships and financial assistance programs specifically available to them.”

“Ultimately, this resource will help level the playing field for childhood cancer survivors, ensuring that they have equal access to the educational opportunities they deserve,” Emma says. “By consolidating essential information into one user-friendly document, I hope to provide these students with the tools they need to succeed in their post-secondary pursuits and beyond.”