2026 CHILDHOOD CANCER WARRIOR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE KYLEIGH!

“On October 21, 2024, I got a call that Kyleigh had collapsed on the volleyball court during a school tournament. She had been experiencing abdominal pain for over a month, but no one had been able to determine the cause. She was rushed to the hospital in Selkirk and transferred to HSC the following morning. After a day of testing, we received the devastating news that Kyleigh had cancer. An emergency surgery was performed on October 24 to remove a cantaloupe-sized tumour from one of her ovaries, along with numerous cancerous masses throughout her abdomen. Biopsies confirmed she had a rare form of germ cell cancer. Although it was fast-growing, doctors were hopeful it would respond well to treatment. Before she had fully recovered from surgery, Kyleigh began an intense course of chemotherapy. By November 2, she had started the first of three treatments, and by Christmas Eve we were finally able to bring her home. Thankfully, the chemotherapy worked, and to date there has been no sign of the cancer returning. Although there was some damage to her remaining ovary that continues to be monitored, she has been able to return to a normal teenage life.

This month, she celebrated her 18th birthday and graduated on time with her classmates from Lundar High School. She plans to take a year off to work before continuing her education next year, with the goal of becoming a teacher.

Kyleigh, we want you to know how incredibly proud we are of you. We watched you face one of the hardest things a person can endure, and you handled it with such humility and grace. You have an unmatched strength that will carry you through whatever life brings your way, and we will always be here, cheering you on.”

From all of us at Candlelighters, congratulations, Kyleigh! We have no doubt you’ll bring the same kindness, strength, and compassion to your future classroom that you’ve shown throughout your journey. We’re so proud to celebrate this incredible milestone with you.❤️🎗️