2021 Teen Cancer Story Contest Winners
1st Place Winners
Essay
Abigail Zahl
Abigail Zahl is 16 years old and a current junior at Blind Brook High School in Westchester County. She lives with her mom, my dad, older sister and adorable 5 year old dog! Her favorite sport is basketball and she plays soccer as well. In addition to playing sports, she loves spending time with family and friends. Abigail's 10th grade English teacher encouraged her to enter this contest because—by being friends with her mom—he knew how much Abby's life changed when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2016.
Poetry
Lindsey Weis
Lindsey Weis is a 16 year old student in Westchester, NY. She entered a poem into the Teen Cancer Story Contest after her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Runner-Ups
Essay
Isabella Gagliano
Bella Gagliano is a Junior at Rye High School. She is treasurer of the Cancer Awareness Club (CAC), member of the varsity track and volleyball team. Bella is dedicated to fundraising for a cure and hopes to see one in her lifetime.
Poetry
Zoe Richman
Zoe Richman is currently a senior in high school. Some of her interests are writing stories, skiing, drawing, and baking. In 5th grade, her mom passed away from breast cancer. After this, Zoe and a few friends started an annual tradition in her community where they tie pink ribbons around people’s trees in our town to raise money and awareness for cancer prevention. This poem is another way she wanted to support people in similar situations as herself by making them feel less alone while also paying tribute to her mom.