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who loved to paint, sketch and swim. As  August was coming to a close, Aisling began to experience a small amount of swelling around her left knee. This obscure symptom led to the diagnosis of osteosarcoma, which is a form of bone cancer that affects children who are experiencing rapid growth spurts. What should have been the celebration of Aisling's ninth birthday and the beginning of her third grade year was now marred by invasive tests and multiple hospitalizations. Chemotherapy began rapidly, only eight days after her diagnosis. |
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Her parents Ann and Micheal could hardly bear witness to the necessary injustices that their beautiful little girl must now endure. As shock and despair spread rapidly through family and friends, it was the faithfulness, strength and bravery of Aisling that rose to the top and carried us through many dark days. These same qualities prevailed when it was necessary to amputate Aisling's leg above the knee. Through illness and recovery Aisling's spirit never wavered. She immediately set goals for herself during this time of rehabilitation. Her determination to achieve these goals was rooted in the simple motto, “To believe is to achieve”. She lived by this principle every day, accomplishing each goal and exceeding every expectation. |
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She is truly an extraordinary She is truly a champion.
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In March, Aisling learned to walk again with her first prosthetic. By accomplishing 
this milestone, Aisling was able to return to one of her greatest joys, horseback riding. She fearlessly tackled each challenge, winning back her right to freedom and independence. Whether it was finishing out third grade with straight A's or swimming laps in a pool just two weeks after her final chemotherapy treatment, this little girl's determination and purpose were unstoppable. Aisling's most ambitious goal was achieved in August when she walked unassisted down the aisle at her Auntie Tish's wedding. This achievement had special meaning as it came almost one year to the day of that initial cancer diagnosis. Aisling continues to shine and amaze all who know her as 
she journeys away from illness and the 
memory of childhood cancer.