Katie Foster's Rare Cancer Battle Ends in Triumph and Dance
Katie Foster's Rare Cancer Battle Ends in Triumph and Dance
Katie Foster's Rare Cancer Battle Ends in Triumph and Dance
Katie Foster was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer at just 11 years old. The news came in November 2011, a day after her cousin received a similar diagnosis. Now, nearly three years later, she has been recognised as one of Golisano Children's Hospital's Miracle Kids for 2014.
Her journey from intense treatment to recovery—and even returning to dance—will be shared on the Children's Miracle Network Hospital's News10NBC Telethon this June. Katie's battle began on 11 November 2011, when doctors confirmed she had rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare soft tissue cancer. Just a day earlier, her cousin, Mareesa Boyatzies, had been diagnosed with Stage 2A Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Both families faced sudden and difficult treatment paths.
To combat the cancer, Katie endured 13 rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation. The aggressive therapy took a toll on her body, requiring doctors to insert a gastrostomy tube (g-tube) for feeding. Later, they replaced it with a jejunostomy tube (j-tube) to deliver nutrients directly to her small intestine. By November 2012, scans showed no signs of cancer, and her medical team halted further treatment to prevent additional harm.
Recovery was slow but steady. By September 2013, Katie returned to dancing—a passion she had missed during treatment. Six months later, she performed in her school's recital. Now cancer-free, she has set her sights on a future in nursing, inspired by the care she received.
Her story will be featured on the Children's Miracle Network Hospital's News10NBC Telethon on Sunday, 1 June 2014. The broadcast will highlight her resilience and the support she received from Golisano Children's Hospital. Katie's experience has shaped her ambitions and brought recognition from the hospital that helped her recover. She plans to pursue nursing after high school, drawing on her firsthand understanding of patient care. Her appearance on the telethon will share her story with a wider audience, raising awareness for children facing similar battles.