Apply for a Scholarship

During PAF's daily interactions with patients, PAF staff often interact with patients and families who have experienced the impact of cancer or a chronic illness on post-secondary education. In 2000, PAF established the Scholarship for Survivors program to honor these individuals by offering educational scholarships to students who have suffered (or are suffering) from cancer or a chronic illness. These students have, despite their diagnosis, excelled academically, served the community, and desire to pursue a secondary education.

Scholarship Impact

For over 20 years, PAF (along with other gracious donors) has provided 235 scholarships totaling over $1 million. Currently 40 incredibly unique and memorable students are pursuing their course of study with funding from this program.

The purpose of our scholarship program is to provide support to individuals that are legal residents of the United States of America pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies who have been diagnosed with or treated for a cancer or chronic disease (please see scholarship guidelines for eligibility details).

Applications for 2025-2026 Academic Term

Deadline for Submissions is March 7, 2025 
National Undergraduate Eligibility Requirements:

To apply for the National Undergraduate Scholarship please click here.

Complete List of Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a Citizen of the United States.
  • Applicant must be under the age of 25.
  • Must have been diagnosed with and/or been actively treated for a cancer or chronic disease within the past five years.
  • Complete Scholarship for Survivors application in full
  • Applicant must write an essay on how their diagnosis has impacted their lives and future goals. (500 word minimum and 2000-word maximum)
  • Applicant must submit a copy of an acceptance letter from the college or university the applicant is planning to attend. If applicant is unsure or has not received acceptance letters yet, please list colleges to which student has applied. If selected as an award recipient, college acceptance will be verified.
  • Applicant must upload two letters of recommendation from non-related persons (examples: teachers, coaches, community leaders). The recommender should be able to endorse your personal character, academic achievements, and work or volunteer experience. Recommender must include their name, address, and phone number within the letter. Your reference letters are an important part of your application. Think hard about who to ask! 
  • Applicant must provide a copy of an official transcript. If you are selected as a scholarship recipient, an official transcript will be required before funds are distributed to your college or university.
  • Applicant must submit completed financial form that will demonstrate financial need and include a copy of the first two pages of tax return for the individual claiming the student as a dependent. If the student or parent claims $0 income on taxes or did not file their taxes, please complete the Declaration of Income Form.
  • Applicant's treating physician, oncologist, primary care physician, or nurse must verify patient's diagnosis by completing the Diagnosis Verification Form or by submitting a signed letter on practice's/providers letterhead. The letter need only include:
    • Patient's name
    • Patient's diagnosis
    • Date of diagnosis
    • When the patient began or will begin active treatment
    • When patient ended or will end active treatment (chronic illnesses do not require end date)

       

To apply to PAF’s Scholarship for Survivors Undergraduate Scholarship, student must have been diagnosed with and/or been actively treated for cancer or a chronic illness within the past five (5) years.

Diagnosis is considered active and eligible to apply if the patient is currently and actively being treated and managed for cancer/chronic illness and/or has been actively treated in the past 5 years.

  • Scenarios demonstrating active cancer treatment/ chronic illness status include:
  • Current chemotherapy, radiation, or anti-neoplasm drug therapy
  • Current drug therapy being administered as treatment for chronic illness
  • Current pathology revealing cancer/ chronic illness
  • A newly diagnosed patient awaiting treatment
  • Affirmation of current disease management
  • The cancerous organ has been removed or partially removed and the patient is still receiving ongoing treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation.
  • The patient is currently on adjuvant therapy for prophylactic purposes.

Diagnosis is considered historical and not eligible to apply if:

  • The cancer/chronic illness was successfully treated, and the patient has been out of active treatment for more than 5 years.
  • The patient had cancer/chronic illness and is coming back for surveillance of recurrence (Annual check-ups).


Scholarship Amount and Distribution:

  • PAF's Scholarship for Survivor Undergraduate scholars are eligible to receive a scholarship of $3,000 per school year ($1,500 per semester: Fall/Spring) for four consecutive years until the student receives a maximum of $12,000 or graduates with a bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • The award is paid directly to the college or university for defraying tuition, books, and other fee costs.


If selected as a recipient, the below are requirements to maintain the scholarship:

    • Complete Scholarship Acceptance Form
    • Agree to media release terms and conditions
    • Provide a personal bio (250 words or less) and self-portrait/headshots (at least 300 dpi) for publication
    • Must maintain a cumulative 2.75 G.P.A.
    • Must be a full-time student
    • Must sign an agreement to complete 20 hours of community service for the year the scholarship will be dispensed and provide PAF with a confirmation when that service has been completed to include a signature of supervisor


Failure to meet any/all of these requirements is a violation of the award, and the recipient will be responsible for repayment of the award monies.  Prior to beginning the application process, please make sure you have all pertinent documents and information for uploading and completing the application.  The system will not allow for advancing if a field is skipped.  

Virginia Undergraduate Eligibility Requirements: 

To apply for the Virginia Undergraduate Scholarship please click here.

Complete List of Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a Resident of Virginia.
  • Applicant must be under the age of 25.
  • Must have been diagnosed with and/or been actively treated for a cancer or chronic disease within the past five years.
  • Must be pursuing an Associate’s degree or higher.
  • Complete Scholarship for Survivors application in full
  • Applicant must write an essay on how their diagnosis has impacted their lives and future goals. (500 word minimum and 2000-word maximum)
  • Applicant must submit a copy of an acceptance letter from the college or university the applicant is planning to attend. If applicant is unsure or has not received acceptance letters yet, please list colleges to which student has applied to. If selected as an award recipient, college acceptance will be verified.
  • Applicant must upload two letters of reference of recommendation from non-related persons (examples: teachers, coaches, community leaders). The recommender should be able to endorse your personal character, academic achievements, and work or volunteer experience. Recommender must include their name, address, and phone number within the letter. Your reference letters are an important part of your application. Think hard about who to ask! 
  • Applicant must provide a copy of an official transcript. If you are selected as a scholarship recipient, an official transcript will be required before funds are distributed to college or university.
  • Applicant must complete the financial section demonstrating financial need and include a copy of the first two pages of tax return from the most recent tax year for the individual claiming the student as a dependent. If the student or parent claims $0 income on taxes or did not file their taxes, please complete the official letter of non-filing from the IRS and complete the Declaration of Income Form.
  • Applicant's treating physician, oncologist, primary care physician, or nurse must verify patient's diagnosis by completing the Diagnosis Verification Form or by submitting a signed letter on practice's/providers letterhead. The letter need only include:
    • Patient’s name
    • Patient’s diagnosis
    • Date of diagnosis
    • When the patient began or will begin active treatment
    • When patient ended or will end active treatment (chronic illnesses do not require end date) 


To apply to PAF’s Scholarship for Survivors Undergraduate Scholarship, student must have been diagnosed with and/or been actively treated for cancer or a chronic illness within the past five (5) years

Diagnosis is considered active, and student is eligible to apply, if the patient is currently and actively being treated for cancer/chronic illness and/or has been actively treated in the past 5 years.

  • Scenarios demonstrating active cancer treatment/ chronic illness status include:
  • Current chemotherapy, radiation, or anti-neoplasm drug therapy
  • Current drug therapy being administered as treatment for chronic illness
  • Current pathology revealing cancer/ chronic illness
  • A newly diagnosed patient awaiting treatment
  • Affirmation of current disease management
  • The cancerous organ has been removed or partially removed and the patient is still receiving ongoing treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation.
  • The patient is currently on adjuvant therapy for prophylactic purposes. 


Diagnosis is considered historical and not eligible to apply if:

  • The cancer/chronic illness was successfully treated, and the patient has been out of active treatment for more than 5 years.
  • The patient had cancer/chronic illness and is coming back for surveillance of recurrence (Annual check-ups)


Scholarship Amount and Distribution:

  • PAF's Scholarship for Survivor Undergraduate scholars are eligible to receive a scholarship of $3,000 per school year ($1,500 per semester: Fall/Spring) for four consecutive years until the student receives a maximum of $12,000 or graduates with a bachelor's degree, whichever comes first.
  • The award is paid directly to the college or university for defraying tuition, books, and other fee costs.


If selected as a recipient, the below are requirements to maintain the scholarship:

    • Complete Scholarship Acceptance Form
    • Agree to media release terms and conditions
    • Provide a personal bio (250 words or less) and self-portrait/headshots (at least 300 dpi) for publication
    • Must maintain a cumulative 2.75 G.P.A.
    • Must be a full-time student
    • Must sign an agreement to complete 20 hours of community service for the year the scholarship will be dispensed and provide PAF with a confirmation when that service has been completed to include a signature of supervisor


Failure to meet any/all of these requirements is a violation of the award, and the recipient will be responsible for repayment of the award monies.  Prior to beginning the application process, please make sure you have all pertinent documents and information for uploading and completing the application.  The system will not allow for advancing if a field is skipped.  

Graduate Eligibility Requirements:

To apply for the National Graduate Scholarship please click here.

Complete List of Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be a Citizen of the United States.
  • Must have been diagnosed with and/or been actively treated for a cancer or chronic disease within the past ten years.
  • Must be pursuing a Master’s degree or higher.
  • Complete Scholarship for Survivors application in full
  • Applicant must write an essay on how their diagnosis has impacted their lives and future goals. (500 word minimum and 2000-word maximum)
  • Applicant must submit a copy of an acceptance letter from the college or university the applicant is planning to attend. If applicant is unsure or has not received acceptance letters yet, please list colleges to which student has applied. If selected as an award recipient, college or university acceptance will be verified.
  • Applicant must upload two letters of recommendation from non-related persons (examples: teachers, coaches, community leaders). The recommender should be able to endorse your personal character, academic achievements, and work or volunteer experience. Recommender must include their name, address, and phone number within the letter. Your reference is an important part of your application. Think hard about who to ask! 
  • Applicant must provide a copy of an official transcript. If you are selected as a scholarship recipient, an official transcript will be required before funds will be distributed to your college or university.
  • Applicant must submit completed financial form that will demonstrate financial need and include a copy of the first two pages of tax return for the individual claiming the student as a dependent. If the student or parent claims $0 income or did not file their taxes, please complete the official letter of non-filing from the IRS and complete the Declaration of Income Form.
  • Applicant's treating physician, oncologist, primary care physician, or nurse must verify patient's diagnosis by completing the Diagnosis Verification Form or by submitting a signed letter on practice's/providers letterhead. The letter need only include:
    • Patient’s name
    • Patient’s diagnosis
    • Date of diagnosis
    • When the patient began or will begin active treatment
    • When patient ended or will end active treatment (chronic illnesses do not require end date)


Diagnosis is considered active and eligible to apply if the patient is currently and actively being treated and managed for cancer/chronic illness and/or has been actively treated in the past 10 years.

  • Scenarios demonstrating active cancer treatment/ chronic illness status include:
  • Current chemotherapy, radiation, or anti-neoplasm drug therapy
  • Current drug therapy being administered as treatment for chronic illness
  • Current pathology revealing cancer/ chronic illness
  • A newly diagnosed patient awaiting treatment
  • Affirmation of current disease management
  • The cancerous organ has been removed or partially removed and the patient is still receiving ongoing treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation.
  • The patient is currently on adjuvant therapy for prophylactic purposes.


Diagnosis is considered historical and not eligible to apply if:

  • The cancer/chronic illness was successfully treated, and the patient has been out of active treatment for more than 10 years.
  • The patient had cancer/chronic illness and is coming back for surveillance of recurrence (Annual check-ups).


Scholarship Amount and Distribution:

PAF's Scholarship for Survivor Graduate scholars is eligible to receive a scholarship of $3,000 per school year ($1,500 per semester: Fall/Spring) for up to two consecutive years until the student receives a maximum of $6,000 or graduates with a Graduate or Ph.D. degree, whichever comes first. The award is paid directly to the college or university for defraying tuition, books, and other fee costs.

If selected as a recipient, the below are requirements to maintain the scholarship:

  • Complete Scholarship Acceptance Form
  • Agree to media release terms and conditions
  • Provide a personal bio (250 words or less) and self portrait/headshots (at least 300dpi) for publication
  • Record at least (1) 30 second- 1 minute "Thank You" video for our donors
  • Must maintain a cumulative 2.75 G.P.A.
  • Must be a full-time student
  • Must sign an agreement to complete 20 hours of community service for the year the scholarship will be dispensed and provide PAF with a confirmation when the service has been completed to include a signature of the supervisor


Failure to meet any/all these requirements is a violation of the award, and the recipient will be responsible for the repayment of the award monies. Prior to beginning the application process, please make sure you have all pertinent documents and information for uploading and completing the application.  The system will not allow for advancing if a field is skipped. 

 

On behalf of Patient Advocate Foundation's Board of Directors and Scholarship Review Committee, we thank you for your interest in our 2025-2026 Scholarship for Survivors program.

After you have applied, your application will be reviewed and you will receive an email from us with an expected date of decision, usually 3-4 months after the application deadline. Applicants that were selected to receive funding will be personally contacted and a contract that outlines the funding guidelines will be forwarded.

For questions please email: scholarship@patientadvocate.org 

To learn more about the students, click the link: https://my.visme.co/v/mx8xm7md-mm6j3n

Returning Scholarship Recipients

Gracie

Hope College, Course: Biomedical Engineering

In Honor of Diane Mauk
Board of Directors Scholarship

Thank you PAF for giving me the opportunity I have always hoped for. Now I can further my education and help others who suffer from autoimmune disease like me. Wanting to achieve your goals is something all people want to do, but for people who suffer from medical issues, it’s so much harder. I appreciate your aid and support.

 

Meghan

Radford University; Criminal Justice

The Dr. Mary T. Christian Award

At only a few months old, I was diagnosed with a chronic lung disease called Cystic Fibrosis. To help me perform tasks, I have a service dog named Milo who will accompany me to Radford University while I major in Criminal Justice. At Radford, I will also be riding horses and showing on their club team. I have been riding and showing horses for three years now and love it. My sister also has a passion for horses, so I enjoy riding with her as well. My family is my biggest support team in overcoming any health obstacles thrown my way.

Sarah

Grand Valley State University; Music, Vocal Performance

I was diagnosed with Hemophagocytic Lymph Histiocytosis and an XIAP-2 deficiency but didn’t let it stop my love for all things music! I write, sing, play the guitar, and participate in musical theater. Music is my outlet and form of self-expression, and I cannot wait to share this gift with others facing similar hardships.

Karlee

UNC Charlotte Center City; Early Childhood Education

At age 13, I was diagnosed with Pilocytic Astrocytoma (inoperable brain tumor). After long chemo treatments, countless surgeries, and feeding tubes, I maintain a positive attitude and look forward to college and furthering my education.

Kayla

University of Miami, Course: Public Advocacy

In Honor of W. Jackson Wisdom
Board of Directors Scholarship

After extended hospital stays due to my chronic illness, I came up with the idea to start a nonprofit collecting entertainment and educational items to donate to children’s hospitals throughout the United States. I have been featured on NBC Nightly News and won several awards from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Young Entrepreneurs Academy, Heart of America, President’s Volunteer Service Award Gold Level, 2020 United Nations Ambassador honor, and been honored by Senators, Congressmen and Florida’s Governor.

Maya

Worcester Polytechnic Institute; Biomedical Engineering

In Memory of Linda Kelly

Receiving this scholarship allows me to continue my volunteer work while pursuing college in biomedical engineering. As someone with many hours of experience as a patient in medical settings, my dream is to help other patients with rare or chronic conditions thrive. My own journey would not be possible without the incredible support of my doctors, who taught me perseverance initiating my will to pay it forward in innovative ways to help others.

Samantha

Boston College; Biology

In Memory of Anne and Murry Herbst

I have been fighting Dysautonomia, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, and digestive tract paralysis since the 5th grade. In 11th grade I became a volunteer Emergency Medical Technician and will attend Boston College to study biology working towards becoming a pediatric neurologist. I cannot shy away from the fact that my medical challenges contributed to my character, self-determination, and bravery. Thank you PAF for the scholarship!

A’mani

Louisiana State University Shreveport; Bio-Chemistry, Pre-Med

At age 13, I was diagnosed with Lupus resulting in numerous hospital stays throughout my school career. These stays sparked my interest in having a career in the medical field, and now attending college, I am getting closer to chasing that dream.

Alice

University of Maine at Farmington; Special Education

I will be studying special education in hopes of being a teacher to kids with similar challenges I once faced. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with friends, cheerleading, and giving back to the community.

Maia

University of New Hampshire; Nursing

In Memory of Lois Helen Boone Montgomery

I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis at a very young age and have experienced many hospitalizations and major surgery. At first, the hospital was a great source of anxiety for me, then I found the silver lining through my amazing nurses. It is a dream of mine to provide the care that I was given in my time of need. I strive to not only be a healer, but a true patients’ advocate as I pursue a career in nursing. Thank you PAF for helping me on my journey.

Zoe’

North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University; Animal Science

I am incredibly involved in my school community as a member of the Debate Team, Cheer Team, Students of Color Support Program, Arlington Teen Board, Sisters Circle, and more! I helped organize and lead the Black Student Union Club, am president of Jack and Jill of America Northern VA Teen Chapter and was a summer veterinary intern. I look forward to becoming a successful veterinarian.

Abigail

University of Memphis; Violin Performance & International Studies

After being diagnosed with a rare renal disease called Nutcracker Syndrome, I received a kidney transplant in my senior year of high school then was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. Despite all the difficulty, I get to pursue my love for the violin and am a member of the University of Memphis Symphony Orchestra and the Sinfonietta Memphis Orchestra.

Hima

Florida State University; Biological Sciences

Growing up with left isomerism and pulmonary and mitral valve diseases in Alppo, Syria, allowed me to realize I would like to work with the Doctors Without Borders organization and help those who do not have access to the great medical care I received in the United States.

Makenna

University of Washington; Communications

In Memory of Carol Balch

I was born with a rare connective tissue disorder called, Larsen’s Syndrome which makes all of my joints dislocated, my air way weak and my spine and c-spine unstable.  At age 8, I started to do service projects to give back to my local Children’s Hospital raising over 1.2 million dollars! I also founded a non-profit called the Makspire Foundation to help me continue what I love to do. I will be pursuing a degree in Communications at the University of Washington this fall and want to continue in the world of children’s health.

Madison

Duquesne University; Environmental Science

I have Hereditary Angioedema and Reflex Neurovascular Dystrophy, both having a significant impact on my life. I enjoy being involved in patient advocacy organizations and legislative advocacy whose focus is on the Hereditary Angioedema community and rare disease patients!

Allison

Washington University in St. Louis; Physics

The Lissa Albertson Award

Just before my junior year of high school, I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and received extensive treatment at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Through my journey, I discovered a passion for physics and radiology ultimately leading me to pursue a Bachelor’s in Physics at Washington University in St. Louis. I hope to be able to help kids in the same position I was in and show them that there is a life beyond cancer.

Giancarlo

Emory University; Neuroscience & Behavioral Biology

I am deeply grateful for PAF and its donors as my scholarship will help my family and me afford my college tuition, especially after the financial burden posed by my cancer diagnosis and treatments in high school.

Safwan

Brown University; Public Health

After advocating for myself as my vision began deteriorating, I was diagnosed with Unstable Bilateral Keratoconus. Knowing I will always have poor vision empowered me to pursue activities that fulfill me and ones that improve others’ lives.

Olivia

Temple University; Early Childhood Education

In 8th grade I had a mass in my pelvis removed that turned out to be Ependymoma (brain tumor). It returned in high school and after completing treatment I attended a summer camp for kids with cancer and their siblings. It was amazing and recently I got to return as a counselor! That experience will help me in my goal of being an Early Childhood Educator.

Calli

Hamline University; Criminology & Criminal Justice

I am so thankful to be a recipient of this scholarship to further my studies in criminology. I want to help get dangerous people off the streets and help reduce the victims of violence. In my free time, I participate in many community and volunteer organizations.

Kathryn

Roanoke College; History, Concentration in Music & Medieval Studies

After being diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease and Celiac Disease in high school, and going through multiple medicine combinations, we finally found one that worked. My symptoms became manageable allowing me to participate in many extracurriculars including band, the academic team, and Model United Nations.

Scholarship Alumni

Tim Connors

At the young age of 15, Tim Conners was diagnosed with cancer and ultimately lost his sight. Tim has chosen to use this life changing experience to gain a positive perspective and says it has "opened up his eyes to everything that was in front of him." Although he still faces complications today, he continues to persevere through them, and work toward his mission of living life to the fullest, making a difference, and redefining possible. Tim is attending his senior year at Ithaca College, studying "Communications Studies" in New York. Tim has already taken a path as a motivational…

Kaela

My sickle cell diagnosis has shaped my life for as long as I can remember. I have graduated Magna Cum Laude with a B.S. in Interdisciplinary Science and a minor in Chemistry. I am now a second-year medical student and serve on the executive board for the Student National Medical Association and am a member of the 12CrP program which focuses on working with the underserved communities. I am extremely grateful to PAF for their support and investment in my future to pursue internal medicine-pediatrics as a trained hematologist.

Sierra

The PAF scholarship is helping me achieve my academic goals as I currently double major in theater production and computer animation. I also plan to continue to be in many extracurricular activities such as plays, choral groups, and community service projects. Without this scholarship, I would not have been able to afford college or would have accumulated debt in school loans. I am very thankful to the scholarship committee for choosing me as a recipient!

Radha

The Robin Prachel Award I will major in computer science and learn more about artificial intelligence and machine learning. I would like to apply what I learn to the medical field to help patients in hospitals and for everyday use. This scholarship is helping me afford one of the best engineering colleges in the nation. I will also be able to volunteer more and give back to the community while enhancing my outlook on life.

Brandon

University of Florida, Course: Psychology on a Pre-Med Track | I was diagnosed with a rare skull cancer and after surgery and proton radiation, have been in remission for almost two years! I plan to be a pediatric psychologist to help patients with their mental health during treatment. |In Honor of James River Country Club Friends|

Ryan

Being a recipient of this generous scholarship will ease the financial burden on my family and provide me more time to focus on my studies, pursue research, engage in internship opportunities and continue volunteering in the community.  In the spring of 2022 I will graduate and begin the next chapter of my journey in medical school to become an oncologist.  As a cancer survivor myself, my life's passion is to help people through medicine, empathize with the struggles in fighting the cancerous beast and offer my patients hope for the future.

Alexa

Duke University, Course: Law | In my freshman year, I was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Because of this, I created the Cards for Warriors program and founded Fight Like a Warrior- a non-profit for those battling chronic illness. I have received my bachelor's degree with honors distinction in public policy from the University of Delaware and this fall will attend Duke Law School with the intention to focus on health law. |The Brendan Bietry Award|

Asia

I am trying very hard to avoid the burden of student loans… the thought of adding student loan debt on top of my medical expenses is suffocating. This scholarship has put me in a position where it is now within my reach to graduate debt-free. Thank you! I am so grateful for this scholarship; it eliminates a tremendous amount of worry allowing me to better focus on my studies.

Connor

It is an honor to be a recipient of this scholarship. Because of this award, I can pursue a nursing degree at my school of choice. My goal is to use this degree to help other patients in the same manner for which my nurses helped me when I was in the hospital. I’m so thankful to the Patient Advocate Foundation for helping me along my journey.

Jessa

I am in pursuit of my BSN and thank Patient Advocate Foundation for this scholarship! IWU’s innovative nursing program with a holistic nursing approach focused on servicing the most vulnerable populations mirrors my core values. I hope to one day be a Nurse Practitioner and to continue my Spanish language studies. I also had the chance to speak at Colorado State University to show how determination and a positive attitude can get you through tough times and shared my challenges and successes during my cancer journey.

Joshua

This scholarship will help immensely in reducing the debt that I will incur throughout my six-year academic journey in pursuit of a Doctor of Pharmacy degree. I plan to gain admission into the School of Pharmacy at Madison after completing two years of prerequisite work.

Rowan

Colorado College, Course: Business Administration and Poetry | After battling through two brain tumors and spinal fluid the summer before Freshman year of high school, I feel inspired to give back to the community that supported me and kept me motivated. By pursuing a double major, I hope to one day write my own novel and open a nonprofit organization. |In Honor of Brian Garofalo Board of Directors Scholarship|

Richie Suarez

Having been recruited to play baseball at Rowan University in 2010, Richie Suarez was looking forward to a new phase in his life and beginning his preparations to become a mathematics teacher. Those plans were put on hold two days before he was to begin his freshman year, as he was diagnosed with cancer. Instead of moving into to his freshman dorm, Richie moved into Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. He then prepared for the battle of his life; ultimately resulting in three and a half years of treatment. In 2011, Richie began experiencing pain in his legs and was diagnosed…

Lydia

I was diagnosed with a brain tumor in high school and although cancer treatment was difficult, I was very grateful for the exceptional care I received. I have completed my undergraduate degree and am currently pursing medicine to one day become a pediatric oncologist and walk alongside children and their families throughout their cancer journey.

Elena

This scholarship takes immense financial pressure off my family and myself, especially since it is so difficult to work during the school year because of my health issues. This scholarship will also help me pursue unpaid research at my school into diagnosing, treating, and increasing awareness for rare diseases.

Lauren

Capital University, Course: Pediatric Oncology Nurse | Cancer has had a profound impact on me. I have a rare genetic disorder called Li-Fraumeni Syndrome, which is a predisposition to all forms of cancer. After battling three cancers four different times I hope to help pediatric cancer patients thrive and feel encouraged. With the help from PAF, I am able to pursue a pediatric oncology nurse career and use my experience to help others. |In Memory of Patsy Gillespie|

Leia

In Memory of  Jenna Agnello Receiving the scholarship from the Patient Advocate Foundation is a blessing that will enable me to further my education. The education that I receive will provide me knowledge and real-time experience that will help me build the Leia’s Kids Foundation. I started my non-profit in high school and with the financial support of the Patient Advocate Foundation, I will be able to earn a degree in business management. I am forever grateful to the Patient Advocate Foundation and all believers in this organization.

Yhan

I have earned my bachelor's degree in Political Science at Columbia University and decided I wanted to explore health policy and global health. After travel opportunities to study disease outcomes, I realized I wanted to become a physician. I was a Clinical Research Coordinator at a Hospital for two years and now have the opportunity to pursue a master's in public health along with a doctorate in medicine.

Bianca

The Dr. Benton Brown Award Battling brain cancer has changed my life and taught me to be open to new possibilities, opportunities and adventures. I am determined to use my strengths and objectives to be successful in this challenging program. I have focused on putting smiles on the faces of teenagers and children fighting for their lives by creating a nonprofit childhood cancer foundation. With my ambitious drive I will overcome whatever challenges faced in graduate school.

Timothy

Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College, Course: Medicine | I was diagnosed with a chronic condition prior to entering medical school but stayed on track academically with support from advisors, friends, and family. I hope one day to care for a diverse range of patients and help improve the experiences and outcomes of patients navigating challenging, new medical care.

Isabelle

Duke University, Course: Neuroscience, Psychology | I was diagnosed with epilepsy at age four and because of my disease, I am interested in studying neuroscience and psychology to help neurodiverse people improve their quality of life and pursue their goals. I am so grateful for PAF's generous scholarship as it alleviates some of the financial burden and allows me to pursue unpaid internships and research opportunities at Duke University. |In Memory of Jane Gardner|

Isabel

It is an honor to receive the scholarship funding, and I am thankful for the financial assistance and investment in my education. I am enrolled in global studies on the Middle East and North Africa to learn about the complex history of the Arabic-speaking world and how some of our greatest modern conflicts have arisen in that region. I will continue my language Arabic and Chinese language studies so that I can communicate with my peers around the world. The Patient Advocate Foundation scholarship award will help me manage my student debt.

Tiffany

Throughout my academic career, I want to strive to be an excellent student through volunteering, good grades, and new experiences. I want to graduate from Ball State in 2020 with a degree in a field I am interested in, educated about and passionate for. This scholarship will benefit me by providing me with an amount of money to go towards my academic career. I think this scholarship also gave me confidence that I am making the right choices and setting a good example.

Lauren

I was an avid dancer before my diagnosis with Stage IV Neuroblastoma in 2012. I completed 18 months of treatment and a phase II clinical trial and have remained with no evidence of disease! I studied biology and anthropology at Washington University in St. Louis and am now pursuing my M.D. and M.B.A at Temple University in Philadelphia. I am heavily involved in the pediatric oncology community and hope to become a radiation oncologist in the future.

Natalia

I am extremely grateful for the help I am receiving from Patient Advocate Foundation! This support motivates me to be a better role model for people with chronic illness! I’m pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in hopes to one day bring specialized veterinary care to Puerto Rico. Studying to become a veterinarian incurs significant debt on top of medical treatment expenses so this scholarship is very meaningful to me.

Sarah Hoang

I am beyond grateful to have been selected as one of the recipients of the PAF scholarship. I attended a private nursing school, and this came with a big financial burden. My dream is to help others afflicted with the hardship of cancer. This scholarship helped me lessen my student loans and allowed me to be one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a Pediatric Oncology Nurse. I am so honored and so appreciative of this generous gift.

Shelby

Due to my diagnosis and course of treatment, I fell behind a semester in just one course of study making me ineligible for all my institutional and federal aid this semester. The PAF scholarship will help offset this loss of aid so I can finish my degree. Serving as the President of the Student Nurses Association Club for the 2017-2018 academic years, I will complete my Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a goal of becoming a nurse practitioner specializing in the women’s health fields. My family and I are so grateful!

Hannah Hughes

Hanna Hughes was born and raised in Rochester, MN. She was an avid soccer player. During her sophomore year of high school, she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, and underwent 27 rounds of chemotherapy as well as the amputation of her right leg, hip, and half of her pelvis. Once recovered, she graduated with her high school classmates on time and attended college at the University of Minnesota Duluth. She double majored in Psychology and Communication. Upon graduation, she started working full time at a non-profit doing marketing and communications. This August, she will finish graduate school and…

Wesam

Executive Board of Directors President Scholarship In Honor of F. Marc Stewart, MD I cannot thank the Patient Advocate Foundation enough. Before receiving this scholarship, the thought of paying for college all on my own while continuing my studies and staying healthy was daunting. I was going to need to work while being a full-time student at a rigorous university. However, now that burden has been lifted. I truly cannot thank the foundation and all the donors for their contributions. But what I can do is utilize this scholarship to the best of my abilities so that I can succeed…

Dominic

The Joanna Tepper Award I am a student at Georgetown University studying Government and Philosophy with a minor in Disability Studies. I am involved in Georgetown University Public Speaking, the Georgetown Parliamentary Debate Team, the American Parliamentary Debate Association, the Georgetown Disability Alliance, the Georgetown University Student Association (GUSA) Accessibility Policy Team, the GUSA Accessibility Coordination Team, the Provost’s Student Advisory Committee, and the Coelho Center Law Fellowship. After I graduate, I hope to attend law school and study disability rights law.

Parker

I want to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to receive a scholarship from your organization. Your gift of a four-year scholarship is something that brings more joy to me and my family than I can truly put in this letter. My medical background like most cancer survivors is extensive and overwhelming. It has been a long and hard road to get where I am today, and it has been a lifelong dream of mine to attend college and graduate school to one day give me a career of giving back to others. I am so grateful that I…

Dr. Benton Brown

It was during Benton Brown’s freshman year of college he discovered the lump in his neck. A month passed before he received a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He recalls this time in his life as the first instance he was ever truly challenged. Those around him, doctors, nursing staff, family and friends advised him not to continue his education during treatment. He challenged their position and maintained they were looking at the circumstance all wrong. Instead of focusing on the challenges, he allowed himself to concentrate on life, all that it allowed and how his diagnosis might shape his future.…

Hadley

Receiving this generous scholarship has been a tremendous blessing. I am extremely lucky to be healthy enough to continue pursuing my educational goals but balancing the medical costs and tuition has been a huge financial burden. This scholarship will help me fortify my completion of my bachelor’s degree. After that, I hope to apply to physical therapy graduate programs, so I can help people in extremely difficult circumstances by showing them compassion and empathy.

Jessica

I completed high school and earned an Associates in Arts simultaneously through the Early College Experience Program. As an Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia survivor, I worked hard to remain motivated to balance my social life, school and athletics, even when going through a rigorous treatment regimen. In 2018 I was selected to host a pageant that supports young women who have had cancer, enabling me to become a role model through sharing my story with others.

Gianna

St. John's University, Course: Political Science Major on the Pre-Law Track | I am a two-time stage IV cancer survivor who persevered with honors through treatment and a stem cell transplant. I believe knowledge is power and hope to eventually become a district attorney and then elected official. I want to use my past experiences to pave the way for my future. |In Memory of Holly Shapiro|
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“Your grant is a tremendous help towards reliving my financial burden. You can be assured I will excel and give back to others, ensuring the best use of the scholarship.” -Yosef G., Major: Religious Studies
“I want to be able to help children when they are faced with a life-altering diagnosis. The benefits of receiving this scholarship from PAF have helped me achieve my dream of returning to UALR. When I was diagnosed, I was forced to drop out of classes which disqualified me for my scholarships. I was always afraid I would not be able to get any scholarships to help me go back. With the help of PAF I am now living my dream!” - Sheralyn, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Psychology Major
“The greatest benefit from receiving this scholarship is the ability to further involve myself in the community around me. I want to help people who have been through similar trauma. I feel that I will be a good source of encouragement to those who need it most.” - Oliver, Georgia College, Physics Major