Lily Weinbach

At 18, when I was supposed to be thinking about college and my future, I was diagnosed with colon cancer. Instead, I faced surgeries, treatments, countless appointments, physical pain, and the fear and uncertainty of serious illness. Cancer disrupted my education, independence, relationships, and many experiences people my age took for granted. Although I am now in remission, the emotional impact didn’t disappear when treatment ended. Years later, I still navigate anxiety surrounding my health and the trauma of becoming sick so young. I’ve learned that surviving cancer and healing from it are two different things. Through these challenges, I’ve developed a deep empathy for others facing illness and a desire to turn my experience into compassion and care for others.