17-Year-Old Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor Making a Difference

In a recent report by Oak Lawn Patch, Gina Bascio, a 17-year-old survivor of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma was profiled. After her timely battle with cancer, this inspirational figure in the community made it a point to raise money in an effort to help other kids fight cancer.

After a January 2010 scoliosis test, Tabascio was diagnosed with stage 3 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. While the diagnosis scared her and her family, she maintained a fighting spirit that ultimately helped her make it through the five months of subsequent treatments. These treatments, of course, included chemotherapy and extended stints at the hospital.

Then, once she was informed that her cancer had gone into remission, the young hero figured that she wanted to use her experiences to help educate, and assist other kids and teens facing similar problems.

"She wanted to give back, she wants to find a cure and help other kids," her mother, Karen Tabascio, told Patch.

With the help of her mother, Gina put together a fundraiser for CureSearch, a non-profit group that helps fund research for youngsters who are fighting cancer. Taking their lead from the 17-year-old survivor, many community groups and leaders stepped in an effort to help her on her mission.

"I don’t mind talking about it and I feel that if it is going to help somebody else or make them want to do something to help," Tabascio said. "Every little bit helps find a cure."

Recent figures released by the American Cancer Society noted that approximately 66,120 people in America were diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2008.