Meet Krystyna
2026 Scholar
Ovarian Cancer 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.

A colorful graphic with a thank you message for supporters of Hope Kids and Hopeland, featuring a stylized hand with colored finger segments.

At age 15, Krystyna was diagnosed with an extremely rare type of ovarian cancer.

Just two years later, she faced it again. This time, she underwent a hysterectomy.

“Experiencing cancer once is life-altering. Experiencing it twice forced me to develop a perspective and strength beyond my years,” she told us.

Krystyna’s passions and hobbies include church volunteerism, pep band, and autism awareness and education. She is studying interior design at Western Carolina University.

“By sharing my story of surviving ovarian cancer twice, I hope to humanize the issue and inspire others to become advocates for awareness and support.”

Krystyna’s Advocacy Project

For her advocacy project, Krystyna is planning a campus awareness and support initiative, bringing together student volunteers to spread awareness about cancer prevention and early detection. She also hopes to organize campus education workshops where she can share her own personal experience and empower others to become advocates for themselves and for others.

“During my treatments, I realized how powerful awareness, education, and compassion can be for someone battling cancer,” says Krystyna. “The encouragement I received from others reminded me that even small acts of support can make a profound difference.”