Lauren Hill wanted to live until Christmas. And that day has come and gone. Lauren is still fighting, despite her diagnosis.
Lauren, 19, may have terminal brain cancer, but she also has a terminal positive attitude. By working with Hospice of South Central Indiana, she’s been able to stay on her feet and spend the holiday season with her family, which was her ultimate Christmas wish.
Lauren’s fight to live has been nothing short of an inspiration to the entire Tri-State area. Watching her play basketball for the College of Mount St. Joseph (and become an honorary coach), helping her raise money for cancer research and treatment, cheering her on from the sidelines…it’s brought this community together in ways not often seen in this day and age.
When Lauren was diagnosed with DIPG, Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (a terminal brain cancer), about 14 months ago, doctors didn’t think she’d make it to December. It’s a testament to Lauren’s strong will and determination to make a difference that she ‘s still with us today. Instead of letting the disease beat her, she struck out to beat the disease – at least long enough to make her mark. She’s raised close to $750,000 for DIPG research, and has inspired many, many people to follow in her footsteps and make a difference. For example, The Cincinnati Rollergirls and Battering Rams recently held a private scrimmage in Lauren’s honor, and made her an honorary Rollergirl with the name “Ginger Snap”. The event raised money for Lauren’s charity, The Cure Starts Now. Nick Goepper, Olympic Bronze Medalist Snowboarder, held an event with Perfect North Slopes called “Rail Jam” to help raise funds as well.
Lauren’s fight won’t last forever, but her legacy will. Watching her living her life to the fullest extent she can will continue to be an inspiration and motivation to the entire Cincinnati area.