Creativity, action, service. These three words are something I’d always wanted to incorporate into my life as a member of my community both locally and globally. The desire to do volunteer work began fresh into high school, but I never knew how or what to do. In grade eleven, that changed when I was diagnosed with dysgerminoma: a rare type of an ovarian germ cell cancerous tumour. I had a surgery to remove it followed by three rounds of chemotherapy. I missed four months of school, which was very hard for me. Being involved in many IB courses, schoolwork was all I focused on. The months leading up to my diagnosis in October were very hard - I lost all motivation to study or even go to school. Chemistry was the big one for me. My biggest concern was: “how will I catch up?” - I know, crazy, right? IB had me so over-obsessed with my grades that I didn’t realize how serious my situation was. I thought I could still do homework and go to school, but chemo made that impossible.
What I’m trying to convey is, this experience drastically changed my outlook on life and gave me a desire to help people. After being sick, I saw that school isn’t everything and you must have a balance. I am not saying that IB isn’t beneficial, but it is very hard on students. CAS provides a break from essays and labs and focuses on community. Full IB was too much for me, but I decided to carry on with the CAS extra-credit piece because I truly see its value. I wanted to get volunteering largely due to all of the sick children who are so innocent and happy although they have a terrible disease. I encountered these kids during treatment and hospice, along with the volunteers so often present so I thought I could do the same once I was better. Through this program, I have learnt many things, gained new values and met many people who continue to shape my life.
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