Luis became part of the Jacob’s Heart family at the age of 16, when he was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a painful bone cancer. After undergoing treatment, Luis was excited to learn he was cancer-free. But after three years, life took another turn… Luis’ doctors told him that his cancer had returned. While it wasn’t the news he had hoped for, Luis knew he would have the support he needed, with his family here at Jacob’s Heart.
Words of wisdom from Luis: “The world isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Life can be very hard, and I don’t care how tough you are… it can beat you to your knees and keep you there if you let it. But it isn’t about how hard you get hit, it’s about how you keep moving forward…that’s how winning is done.”
Luis is part of the Jacob’s Heart Teen Group, and feels strengthened being with others who know what he’s going through, especially his mentor, Mariela Medina. Together, the Jacob’s Heart teens learn how to turn their cancer experience into Post-Traumatic Growth, an evidence-based theory that holds that after tremendous struggles, deeper meaning and growth can be found. Post-Traumatic Growth is especially possible with support from others who share the experience.
“Cancer has given my life a different perspective. In a way, cancer gave me a gift. A gift the average person cannot comprehend. I saw the best in human nature when I was sick.”
— J.C. teen cancer survivor
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To volunteer at Jacob’s Heart and make a difference for teens like Luis, please contact us; we’d love to hear from you.
