Donelle’s Story
At just 19 years old, Donelle Johnson is already making her mark as a model, motivational speaker and official ambassador for the Trevor Barlow Library. She is also an aspiring lawyer and author, currently writing her memoir.
Donelle’s cancer journey began when she was only three months old. Since 2007, she has faced cancer five times an experience that has shaped her resilience, strengthened her faith and inspired her to encourage others.
In 2014, while receiving treatment for cancer in her right arm, Donelle experienced a severe allergic reaction that led to a heart attack. Having to change treatment and begin again brought new challenges and side effects, but it also reminded her of her determination to keep moving forward.
Throughout her journey, reading has offered Donelle comfort and an escape during long days in hospital. Today, she expresses herself through fashion and modelling, while her love of literature continues to inspire her dream of publishing her own book.
“CHOC has been a strong anchor throughout this journey,” Donelle shares. “They have supported my family and me practically and emotionally, and helped make my childhood within hospital walls brighter. Most importantly, they reminded us that we were never alone or forgotten.”
Donelle credits her mother as one of her greatest sources of strength. Her hopes for the future include returning to the runway, publishing her memoir and becoming a lawyer so that she can advocate for others.
Her message to children and teenagers facing a cancer diagnosis is simple:
“A diagnosis is not your whole story it is only one part of it. Keep moving forward and continue believing in the future you want to create. This is not the end of your story.”
