Cancer survivor inspires other kids battling cancer

September 19, 2023 - WILX

Originally published September 18, 2023 on WILX.com

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) -“No kid should be finding out that they have cancer,” said Raynie Clark.

At just 6 years old, it’s something no child should ever experience. For Raynie Clark, she spent two years fighting for her life.

“My mom took me to the doctor because my energy was low,” said Clark. “She thought I had strep throat. That’s where I was diagnosed with A.L.L, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.”

A.L.L accounts for about 30% of pediatric cancer and is the most common form of leukemia found in children. At 11-years-old, Raynie serves as a national youth ambassador for Hyundai Hope on Wheels, she wants to inspire other kids with cancer.

Just a few decades ago, only about 58% of kids were surviving cancer for 5 years or more. Now, it’s about 85% of kids.

“Children are very resilient and their bodies can tolerate more aggressive chemotherapy than an adult can,” said Renuka Gera.

Renuka Gera is a Pediatric Hematologist Oncologist at Michigan State University Health Care. She says while the survival rate has increased, there’s still work to be done.

Read the full article here.