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Rhabdomyosarcoma

Twenty-one-year-old Lindsey Jones of Gurley, Alabama, will be a senior when she returns to the University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH) in fall 2017. She is a psychology major and music minor, a mainstay on the Dean’s List and was recently inducted into the Psi Chi International Honor Society in Psychology. She’s also a member of the UAH Concert Choir and Kappa Delta Sorority, and founder of the inaugural Miracle Network Dance Marathon at UAH. The Dance Marathon, benefitting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH), holds a special place in Lindsey’s heart, as she has dedicated her life to raising awareness for childhood health. “My passion is still being involved with Children’s of Alabama,” said Lindsey, who underwent treatment at Children’s for a rare form of cancer called rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS). The cancer led to Lindsey losing her eyesight at 4 years old, and she received chemotherapy and radiation therapy for one year following her diagnosis. Lindsey only spent six weeks at home that year, but the ordeal didn’t dampen Lindsey’s drive to thrive. “I might have lost my vision, but I didn’t lose my vision for living,” a 12-year-old Lindsey said in 2008. Lindsey and her family celebrated 16 years in remission in March 2017. “It’s hard to believe she has made it this far and continues to excel,” said Lindsey’s mother, Terry. “She has come so far. We are so thankful and blessed.” Lindsey was recognized for her bravery, optimism and bright spirit when she was selected to represent Alabama as a CMNH Champion. Since that time, Lindsey has gone on to work and volunteer at her local crisis center in addition to serving the community through her sorority and sharing her story – and singing talents – at various events. “I am still very busy and love life in general,” Lindsey said. “My goal is to one day help people going through cancer.”