Katie Foster's Cancer Battle Inspires Hope at Miracle Network Telethon

Katie Foster, a young dancer from Rochester, will share her inspiring story at the Children's Miracle Network Hospital's News10NBC Telethon on June 1, 2014. Her journey began in November 2011 when she was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare form of soft tissue cancer. Now in remission, she has been named one of Golisano Children's Hospital's five Miracle Kids for 2014. Katie's battle with cancer started in late 2011. Doctors confirmed she had Rhabdomyosarcoma, a disease that required aggressive treatment. Over the following months, she endured 13 rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation.

To help her maintain strength during treatment, a gastrostomy tube (g-tube) was inserted to deliver nutrients directly to her stomach. Later, an abscess formed around the tube, leading to its replacement with a jejunostomy tube (j-tube). Despite these challenges, Katie remained determined to return to her passion for dance. By September 2013, her cancer was in remission, and she was able to resume dancing. Just six months later, in March 2014, she performed in her school's recital—even delivering a solo inspired by her experience with illness. Her resilience has made her a symbol of hope for others facing similar struggles. Katie's story is not unique in her family. Around the same time, her cousin Mareesa Boyatzies was also diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. Their shared fight has brought attention to the importance of paediatric cancer care. The community will come together to support young patients like Katie at the 18th annual Stroll for Strong Kids fundraising walk and 5K run on May 31, 2014. The event, held at Genesee Valley Park, aims to raise funds for Golisano Children's Hospital, where Katie received her treatment.

Katie's appearance at the telethon will highlight the progress she has made since her diagnosis. Her story underscores the impact of specialised medical care and community support for children battling serious illnesses. The upcoming Stroll for Strong Kids will further strengthen efforts to fund life-saving treatments for young patients in the region.