At age 2, Amanda McKean was diagnosed with Leukemia. Today, the Fairfield sophomore is a cancer survivor. She talks about the mental toll cancer can take on you, the need for support and why she started Cancer Crusher.
The Mirror: When were you diagnosed with Leukemia?
Amanda McKean: I was diagnosed when I was 2. My parents didn’t know what was wrong with me. I had intense stomachaches and extremely high fevers. After some tests, doctors determined that it was Leukemia.
TM: What were you and your family’s reaction to the diagnosis?
AM: My whole entire family was there for support. There would be times where I spent weeks in the hospital, and I always had a family member there to hangout with me. At one point I became completely silent. So my uncle brought his dog to the hospital. I started to laugh out of excitement. That broke the silence. It was all I needed.
TM: How long did you receive treatment and when were you finally cured?
AM: I was treated at Sloan Kettering Memorial Cancer Center in NY for two years. I was cured when I was 4.
TM: So what exactly is Cancer Crusher?
AM: Cancer Crusher is a club that helps raise awareness for teenagers and young adults with cancer.
TM: What inspired you to start this club?
AM: After sitting in the waiting room for my annual checkup, I started to observe teenagers around my age who were missing out on applying to college, playing sports and going to prom. I realized that this age group is underrepresented when it comes to cancer. People mostly think of children or the elderly. So I started Cancer Crusher to help change this.
TM: In your opinion, what is the hardest thing about battling a disease such as Leukemia?
AM: I’d say the hardest thing is that cancer takes a mental toll on you. You are constantly asking yourself why you have this disease. Trying to rationalize it in your head is very difficult. You have to be strong-willed. Support is crucial.
TM: What is your advice to a child or teenager recently diagnosed with cancer?
AM: My advice is to stay positive as much as you can. Don’t give up. There are so many different ways of getting support, whether it is from family, friends or a hospital itself. You are not alone. There are people out there that you can talk to.
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