Justine's Story - Swinging for the Green Monster

It feels like I hit a homerun with every treatment I complete. Both the Boston Red Sox and Starlight have inspired me throughout my illness. My name is Justine and I am 10 years old. I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, or bone cancer, on October 6, 2006. My family was very upset. I was scared.

The doctors started six treatments of chemo before my surgery which took place on January 12, 2007. The doctors removed the tumor and replaced it with a donor bone. It was a long time before my body started to heal.

I have had many casts and my chemo treatment is ongoing. For the past eight months there have been many hospital visits and extended stays.

Being in the hospital is not fun. Having to stay in bed a lot made me feel like the Red Sox do when they get into a slump. During this time, Starlight came to the rescue! They provided video games on a cart called a Fun Center while I was bedridden. Last December, the Starlight Site playroom at the hospital got a make-over thanks to the Foundation! I was lucky enough to cut the ribbon. All the new games and toys are awesome.

This year, I was in the hospital on opening day. I didn’t want to miss the game. I suggested that we have an opening day party in the Starlight Site. Everyone wore their Red Sox gear. We made popcorn and cheered our team on. It made my day a special day.

My favorite Red Sox players have touched my life in an inspirational way. They never give up no matter what curve ball life throws their way. I try to do the same as them as I fight my way through my illness. I won’t let the way I feel some days strike me out. I will swing for the “green monster” each and every day!