Tanya Giordano

Team Tanya

I was 9 years old when I was diagnosed with a blood cancer. During my treatments, I remember thinking that I wasn't living life: I missed a big part of grade 4, 5 & 6. It was a long battle (2 and a half years). I wasn't able to be with everybody else. And as a child, it seemed unfair and I use to ask myself the question "why me?"

The biggest challenge I face today is now always being anxious before going to the doctor. I get nervous when waiting for test results from a doctor's appointment. I am afraid that the cancer might come back.

The Light the Night Walk signifies hope for me. Seeing survival rates increase over the years is hopeful. I also walk for those who are going through cancer right now, especially for children who have been diagnosed. The walk reminds me to be thankful for being alive. I am very thankful for my family, nurses, doctors, and to be alive, also I try to live life to fullest. In addition, I feel strongly about the importance of family because they were there beside my side during the whole process.

When you participate to the walk, you are helping somebody; someone who needs an extra treatment. Seeing the number of people at the walk, seeing the number of white lanterns reminds you that you are not alone in your fight against cancers.