Teenagers with cancer were able to attend a prom of their very own, after missing their school’s proms because of life-saving treatment.
What are the details?
According to KCBS-TV, several of the chronically ill teens were able to attend a prom Saturday night in Long Beach, California.
Teen Jennifer Mosqueva said that she was thrilled to be able to partake in such an integral part of the high school experience.
“I kind of get a sense, like a normal teen, ’cause I feel like a lot of my time was lost in the hospital and I just feel normal,” she explained. “And I feel happy.”
The prom, called “Let’s Glow Crazy,” was designed specifically for those students who had to miss their proms. The event was hosted by A Friend in Me Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing everyday social experiences to pediatric and teen cancer patients.
The organization’s website reads, “When cancer happens to a loved one, everything changes. A simple fever can never be simple any more. A normal day will never be not so boring anymore. We cannot take away the pain and agony of the treatment. But we can bring some comfort with some friendly social activities.”
The prom program is in its second year and relies on donations. In February, young women were able to pick out free dresses from a partnering boutique. Young men were able to choose their tuxedos as well.
What are they saying?
Nikki Pendekanti, the organization’s founder, revealed that she was moved to start the organization after the cancer death of her son.
“I see my son in all of their faces,” she admitted. “There’s nothing I can do for him. And to see, it’s just so meaningful, and it’s so fulfilling, I mean the happiness I get, is beyond.”
Eldy Fajardo, another teen diagnosed with cancer, expressed her gratitude to the foundation and its generosity.
“We are all the time in the hospital,” Fajardo said. “We don’t get to go to our schools’ high school proms. And I’m glad that they bring prom to us.”
KCBS reported that each of the teens were able to bring three close friends to the function, where candy, mocktails, and foods were served.