Michelle Seredenko

Before Michelle was a cancer patient, she was just a little girl.

A little girl who loves playing video games, drawing for hours, and practicing yoga because it helps her feel calm. She proudly earned her yellow belt in Taekwondo, and she dreams that one day she will work with animals and take care of them.

She’s nine years old now, with a bright smile and the softest, most caring heart. That’s who Michelle truly is — not a diagnosis, just a beautiful child with big dreams.

When Michelle was five, something didn’t feel right. She began walking strangely and complaining about sharp pain in her back. We went to the emergency room several times before doctors finally asked us to stay for more tests.

That day was my birthday.

And that’s when we heard the words no parent is ever ready for: acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Later we learned it was CNS3, the most advanced stage, with cancer cells already in her spinal fluid.

The first months were incredibly difficult. Michelle slowly lost the ability to walk and even move because of the pain. My husband stayed with her in the hospital while I continued working to support our family, rushing there after work so he could rest.

When I was with Michelle, I did everything I could to support her — surrounding her with love, prayers, healing music, and every bit of hope I could hold onto.

Slowly, the treatment began to work. One day Michelle stood up and took her first step. She was so proud, and I remember crying and laughing at the same time.

Over the next two and a half years, Michelle went through 2 bone marrow procedures, 21 lumbar punctures, 77 rounds of chemotherapy, and 10 rounds of radiation to her brain.

She finished treatment two and a half years ago, but healing takes time. For childhood leukemia, doctors consider full remission after five years, so Michelle is still on her journey.

Like many children who go through cancer treatment, she still carries some fears. With the help of caring professionals and support programs, she continues to grow stronger every day.

Today, Michelle is back at school. She laughs, plays, practices yoga, and dreams about her future again.

She is here. She is brave. And she reminds me every day how strong the human spirit can be.

To me, she will always be that little girl with a bright heart and big dreams — and the brightest light in my life.