Stories & Petitions

 8th Grade School's Valedictorian Triumphs Over Unthinkable
 Date: June 6, 2002

        Ashley's 8th grade year was supposed to be the highlight of her 10 year educational journey at Sts. Peter and Paul School in San Francisco.  She had an excellent academic record, was President of the Student Council, and was looked up to by her peers.  But something happened in February that changed Ashley's life forever.  She was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor.  Her condition forced her to undergo a series of painful procedures including surgery and chemotherapy.  Her future seemed so unclear yet this amazing young woman never gave up the fight to overcome the ominous challenge that lay ahead.

       Ashley's classmates voted her class Valedictorian even though she was unable to attend school for most of the second semester.  In graduation speech, Ashley talked openly about her recent ordeal.  The following is an excerpt from her speech:

"...Another thing I'll never forget was when I found out that during my surgery I had 32 screws in my head, one for each member in our class.  Ever since then, I felt like there was a reason for all of this and I was no longer scared because I knew that GOD had angels with me, 31 to comfort me.  I knew that this hadn't happened just so I could experience pain and suffering, it had brought us closer together, like a family.  I knew I would be alright because right then, I felt a new sense of hope and placed my life and trust in GOD's hands."

Though her 8th grade year may not have unfolded as she expected, Ashley remains a great role model and a true hero.  She has continued radiation therapy since her 8th grade graduation in June and her prognosis is promising.  Ashley will enter high school in the fall with Angels by her side and with life experience far beyond her age.

Read Ashley's Mother Story >

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