Young survivor Mortus learns about philanthropy
Caitlyn Mortus, 15, has spent hours cheering for her school — as well as for MD Anderson Children’s Cancer Hospital. After treatment for Burkitt’s lymphoma, she is cancer-free and celebrating her survivorship by learning about philanthropy.
From benefit spaghetti dinners to representing the Children’s Cancer Hospital at the Advance Team-sponsored Santa’s Elves holiday party and at the Kinkaid School’s “Beating Cancer with a Stick” lacrosse tournament, Caitlyn and her family are determined to raise funds for pediatric cancer research.
She helps make connections
Caitlyn also has a wish that every child battling cancer can keep connected to loved ones while undergoing treatment.
She knows first-hand the power of social healing. Thanks to a computer she received during her treatment, Caitlyn was able to stay in contact with her family and friends, which kept her spirits high.
From this inspiration, the Mortus family has created Keep Kids Connected, which provides computers to children with severe illnesses to help them stay in touch, too. The foundation sponsors events for this purpose and raises money for cancer research.
Today, Caitlyn is back on the soccer field, tumbling twice a week and getting ready to run track in the spring.
She’s looking forward to trying out for cheerleader for her high school next year, too. All of this keeps Caitlyn involved with the Children’s Cancer Hospital and flying high.
