9-year-old Kursten is fighting Ewing Sarcoma… pushing through every challenge with incredible strength, courage, and determination.

Kursten’s cancer journey started in November 2025 when she felt a sharp pain on her right side during a family dinner.

What first seemed like pneumonia quickly progressed into severe hip pain that made walking almost impossible. This once active and energetic girl suddenly needed help with even the smallest movements.

After multiple ER visits and extensive testing, including X-rays, ultrasounds, an MRI, a CT scan, a PET scan, and a biopsy, her family received the heartbreaking news…

Kursten was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of cancer known as Ewing Sarcoma on December 9, 2025.

As her condition was deteriorating so quickly, her care team commenced chemotherapy before the final confirmation of her diagnosis.

Her pain and related complications have resulted in several long hospital admissions as her care team has worked urgently to manage her symptoms. She has also had multiple emergency admissions for fever and gastrointestinal issues.

This brave girl has endured a central port placement, 3x blood transfusions, a platelet transfusion, and 5x cycles of chemotherapy.

Each cycle of chemo has presented challenges, often sending her back to hospital shortly after going home. Over time, she has regained the ability to walk, climb stairs, and enjoy short outings, and today she can move independently and participate in light activities.

Life looks so different to before her diagnosis, but Kursten continues to find joy wherever she can… nothing can dim her smile or her spirit!

In hospital, she loves doing crafts, making slime, chatting with the nurses, and exploring the play areas. Even though she had to spend Christmas, her brother’s birthday, and New Year’s in the hospital, Kursten and her family made the best of it and those celebrations have become treasured memories. 

When she’s home, Kursten loves baking, cooking, photography, and playing with her younger brothers, Kurtis and Keithan. 

Her family, her faith, and the support of her care team are her greatest sources of strength as she continues to navigate this cancer journey.

Kursten recently completed her fifth cycle of chemotherapy and underwent her second PET/CT scan.

She still has 9 cycles of chemotherapy to go, and her care team is evaluating the next steps in her treatment plan – she may also need radiation or surgery.

Kursten, we’re riding for you this August! You’re an inspiration!