Congratulations to our four 2009 John W. Luttrell Scholarship Winners! You have shown strength and courage while dealing with the challenges of childhood cancer. Best of luck as you continue your education and realize your dreams!

 

Carlos Castellanos

Carlos is a 24 year old attending ASU who was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at the age of 19. He was attending a local Community College at the time. His treatment consisted of Chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. After his treatments he started school again, taking one class a semester. He has always wanted to study medicine and is seeking a Biochemistry Degree. He hopes his professional career will give him the opportunity to research cures and affordable treatment options for those dealing with cancer.

 

Brittnee Rogers

Brittnee is 18 years old and was diagnosed with Stage 3 Neuroblastoma when she was 3. Her treatment consisted of chemotherapy and two surgeries. She will be attending her first year at Northern Arizona University in the Fall. She plans to seek a degree in Child Psychology or Social Work. Brittnee loves to dance (she performed at our fashion show in 2008) but will likely need back surgery to relieve pain that she has had for a number of years. She believes her destiny in life is to help others and wants to make a difference in other children's lives.

 

Krista Gillis

Krista is a 20 year old attending the University of Arizona . Her younger sister Kelsey was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma (in her nasal cavity) when Kelsey was 8 and Krista was 11. We awarded Krista a $1,500 scholarship in 2007 which was her first year at U of A. She continues to pursue a Bachelor of Music in Choral Music Education and is enjoying her college experience. Krista has participated in our fashion shows and she feels that her experience with Kelsey's cancer has helped make her more empathetic to others, more organized, and better able to handle stressful situations.

 

Christian Urrea

Christian is 18 years old and was diagnosed with Stage IV Metastatic Prostate Rhabdomyosarcoma last year. His treatments have included both radiation and chemotherapy. Because of his treatments Christian had to be home schooled the last semester of his senior year, but still graduated with honors in May. Christian plays the clarinet and was disappointed to have missed his Marching Band's trip to Florida this year. He feels that his cancer experience has made him more mature and he now appreciates things (like school) he previously took for granted and has gained new strength through spirituality. Christian plans to obtain an Associates Degree at Mesa Community College and ultimately attend Northern Arizona University to pursue a degree in Animal Biology.