Natalie and Paige's friendship is one of understanding � a special bond that comes from sharing similar life-changing experiences. Both young ladies were diagnosed with cancer at age 14 and received treatment at The Children's Hospital at Carolinas Medical Center It was here that their friendship blossomed.

Natalie, a graduate of North Meck High School, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer during her freshman year of high school. Just days after the disease was detected, doctors performed surgery on the teenager, removing a large tumor and one of her ovaries. Following surgery, Natalie endured months of chemotherapy and its many side effects � and she grew up quickly.

A Providence High School graduate, Paige is also a young lady who faced illness with adult wisdom. Like Natalie, she was diagnosed with cancer during her freshman year of high school. She received chemotherapy and radiation to treat a football-sized tumor on her thigh.

Through their experiences, both girls developed a keen interest in helping others. They started a support group for children at The Children's Hospital, and they both served as counselors at Camp Care, a summer haven for pediatric oncology patients.

Paige and Natalie, who are each now cancer free, have long-term plans to help others. Natalie is attending the University of North Carolina at Wilmington with plans to study pediatric oncology. Paige, who attendsGardner-Webb University, plans to work in labor and delivery after graduation.

"Having cancer has changed my life," said Natalie, "and it has helped me know what I want to do." She and Paige both have visions of a bright future. Thanks to the special bond they developed at The Children's Hospital, and their shared personal triumphs, Paige and Natalie will be giving back to their community for years to come!