Students of the Year Chicago
Jessica Keuth-Rahtjen | Team Ashley
Welcome to Jessica Keuth-Rahtjen's SOY Fundraising Page!
On my childhood block, there were not many girls to play with after school. I spent most of my afternoons alone getting my homework done, talking to my grandma, and reading. That is until the Woltman’s moved in next door. Quickly Ashley, who was only about five at the time, became a friend. Her contagious energy, spunkiness, and determination made her a person whom others were drawn too. Little did we all realize that it was these qualities that would allow her story to continue on as a cancer survivor.
Ashley is a survivor of childhood leukemia. After being diagnosed at 11 years old on January 1st, 2014, she spent years determined to win the battle for her life. With a total of 160+ days in the hospital she underwent numerous procedures including total body radiation and a life saving bone marrow transplant from a complete stranger. The war only continued from there with nine months of isolation. She missed a total of 20 months of school and 6 years later still continues to deal with the lasting effects of the toxic treatment.
Ashley is able to proudly wear the title, “survivor” because of research performed by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. One of the chemotherapies they helped fund was Dasatinib, this was the chemo that saved her life. Without funding to research this drug she would not be here today.
This brings me to why I am writing this message. Ashley is competing in the Students of the Year Campaign through the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. I am honored to have been asked to help her reach her goal of $15,000. We have entered this seven week fundraising challenge to put our best foot forward in fighting all blood cancers.
Your donation will allow LLS to continue funding lifesaving research and support programs for patients and their families. Learn more about LLS and its mission by visiting: www.lls.org.
Ashely is fortunate to have beaten leukemia. Together, we can give others the same chance. Thank you in advance for your generous support.
4 Comments
Cynthia Windeler
You Go GIRL Ashley! We love you! - The Windeler's
Ginger Bolen
You're a rockstar Ashley and so is your mom.
Jeff Valentine
Your story is an inspiration not only to me but many others who know your journey. Keep on keeping on Ashley!!
Amy L
Go Ashley!