D.J.'s Hero Award Winner Spotlight - Lauren Hacker
Over the next month we will be honoring each of this year’s 15 D.J.’s Hero Award winners. The D.J.’s Hero Scholarships are underwritten by David and Peggy Sokol in loving memory of their son, D.J., who lost his battle with cancer in 1999 at age 18. The awards recognize Nebraska high school seniors who exemplify perseverance and selflessness and who are servant-leaders in their communities. A total of 157 D.J.’s Hero Scholarships have been awarded to Nebraska students over the past 22 years.
Lauren Hacker – Marian High School, Omaha
“I am excited that I have found my path and can use my experience to help others.”
Throughout 50 rounds of chemotherapy, 20 radiation treatments, 10 hospitalizations and countless doctor’s visits to combat Leukemia, Lauren Hacker, of Omaha, persevered with grit, determination and a positive attitude.
First diagnosed when she was in fifth grade, Lauren suffered a relapse on her 14th birthday, but she refused to give up hope. Upon release from a four-month hospitalization, she insisted on starting high school on time, even though her doctor cautioned her to wait three months. Though she was still receiving radiation therapy, Lauren was not deterred from participating in high school as a “normal” student.
Not only has she excelled academically, Lauren has also committed to raising funds to support pediatric cancer research. She is president of Lolo’s Angels Junior Board and has been a spokesperson for the American Red Cross and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. She has also worked at more than 40 bone marrow drives throughout the community and is particularly invested in educating people about the need for African American, Latino and other ethnically diverse donors.
Lauren plans to major in nursing at Creighton University in the fall. Her long-term goal is to work as a pediatric oncology nurse. “When I was sick, it was the connection with the nurses that made each day tolerable,” she says. “It may seem like a small thing to take extra time to wash someone’s hair or prepare their bed with all their stuffed animals lined up, but these little things give patients hope and the strength to fight through their illness to recovery. I will be that kind of nurse!”