Childhood cancer doesn’t just affect childhood. The effects of fighting cancer can last a lifetime. When you give to Rally, you help kids like Keren continue to thrive—despite challenges they may face after their battle.

Throughout her childhood cancer journey, Keren’s personal motto has been “let your light shine.” Keren and her family shared their story with us last December, and we recently checked in to see how things have changed for them over the past year.

Rally Kid Keren with her new puppy, Tucker.

Now a seventh grader, Keren started a new school this fall. She is very happy with the academic and social environment, and she has even begun learning computer coding!

Keren enjoyed swimming competitively prior to cancer. Since finishing treatment and becoming more comfortable with her prosthetic, she has gradually resumed physical activities. She does occasionally struggle with the fit of her prosthetic and injuries from overuse, but she is thrilled to be swimming at the community pool, riding her bike, playing tennis and hiking.

Keren and her sister, Lyla, after a 2-mile hike in the mountains.

Keren still takes maintenance chemotherapy pills, which cause some fatigue and digestive issues. Despite her suppressed immune system, Keren has thankfully remained healthy throughout this global pandemic. Her scans continue to be all clear!

It has been hard to deal with the social isolation of COVID after being part from friends and extended family during cancer treatment. Keren’s family has focused on quality time by testing new recipes and playing new games together. Her mom says, “Our pandemic dynamic is a bit chaotic, but I think we will see it has brought us closer together.”

Keren and her her mom, Kelly.

2020 has been an uncertain year for many of us, but it hasn’t stopped Keren from looking to the future.

She dreams of becoming a dolphin therapist, physical therapist or child life specialist. In the meantime, Keren is working on her entrepreneurial skills—sewing dog bandanas as a side business. She also gained valuable experience in website design while interning at her parents’ company.

Keren has endured a lot in her young life, but she continues to let her light shine.

Keren’s recent scans showed No Evidence of Disease! She asking you to please give so all kids fighting cancer have a chance for clear scans, too.

Kids deserve a bright future after cancer. Please donate today to fund cutting-edge childhood cancer research and help us make a difference #ForTheirFuture.