The high school formal is a milestone in the lives of many young people, but for Hannah Rye, the big night meant so much more.
Hannah is a cancer survivor. Several years ago she was diagnosed with the rare Ewing sarcoma, an aggressive form of tissue cancer that attached itself to her spine. After treatment, Rye went into remission for 6 months… but on May 15th she received tragic news. The cancer was back.
Hannah Rye
This time around, the cancer was not treatable. Doctors gave Rye, 15, a very short time to live. According to the timeline they set, she would be much to sick to attend her 10th year high school formal.
Hannah Rye
When administrators at Rye’s school heard about her situation, they decided to move the high school formal up one month, so that Rye could attend… but they weren’t the only ones to step up and give the vibrant young girl the night of a lifetime.
Hannah Rye
In her first battle with cancer, Rye was part of a program called Tren7’s Kick For Kids, the brainchild of famous rugby player Trent Hodkinson. The 29-year-old rugby player spent lots of time with Rye while she was in the hospital, and the two developed a wholesome bond.
Hannah Rye
When Hodkinson heard that Rye’s cancer was back, he decided to put on a snappy blue suit and escort the young woman to the big dance. Hodkinson arrived at Hannah’s house before the formal and then they travelled to the event together.
Hannah Rye
They both had the time of their lives.
Hannah Rye
Rye’s entire class was waiting for the duo as they pulled up the event space in a fancy car and walked the red carpet together, arm in arm.
“He’s the sweetest man, and we love him,”Rachel Rye said of Hodkinson.“Tonight has been unbelievable and we’ve just seen so much love for Hannah. She’ll never get another moment like this, and it’s pretty special.â€
Words can’t describe the joy that Rye felt that night, but we can all learn from it. Knowing that her life is drawing to a close, she chooses to face every day with a positive mindset and a heart full of hope.
Share and spread her hope and message.
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