Tucson cancer survivor’s work with other sick kids honored
by Fernanda Echavarri on Oct. 13, 2008, under Body, Calendar, Local, Special
Tucson cancer survivor Luisa Diaz (right front) is one 10 teens chosen to hang out at Miley Cyrus' (left front) Sweet 16 party in Disneyland.
A Tucson teen was among 10 teens nationwide recognized for community service by pop singer Miley Cyrus at Disneyland last weekend.
Luisa Diaz is a cancer survivor who volunteers with other teens battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
The 18-year-old was one of the 10 Youth Service America teenagers chosen to be part of “Miley’s Sweet 16, Share the Celebration,” at Disneyland Oct. 5.
“I was on the bus on my way home from school when I got the call, I was so excited I almost teared up a little,” Diaz said.
Event organizers flew Diaz and her family on an all-expenses paid weekend trip to California, the media release said.
“When I was in treatment, there were not very many opportunities for teens to meet each other,” Diaz said. “I wanted to offer activities where the kids could come together.”
Diaz said she would like to see more young people volunteer because “it’s amazing to see smiles on people.”
Diaz is the coordinator for the Candlelighters Youth Council, a group of cancer survivors and their families in Tucson.
She’s a student at Project MORE High School, 440 S. Park Ave., studying to become a pediatric nurse.
“Ever since I was little, my grandma was a nurse, and I wanted to follow her steps. Then when I got sick, I became even more determined to help sick children,” Diaz said.
Diaz was diagnosed with leukemia at 13, and has had two bone marrow transplants.
She is cancer free now.
“This recognition couldn’t go to a better person,” said Terry Nordbrock, executive director for Candlelighters. “Luisa has such a big heart, and creates wonderful experiences for other teens with cancer.”
