From Diagnosis to Advocate: John Allen’s Journey with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
How one teen moved past a pediatric cancer diagnosis to become a voice for families nationwide.
For 12-year-old John Allen, life changed just before Christmas when his mom, Marley, noticed a small lump on his neck.
Despite several initial reassurances from providers that it “didn’t look like cancer,” the eventual diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma was a massive shock to the family.
“We weren’t prepared at all,” Marley says. “It was a total whirlwind.”
What followed were months of long hospital stays and grueling chemotherapy. Through it all, John Allen faced each challenge with a quiet, steady confidence. In the summer of 2022, his scan finally came back clear.
When he finally "rang the bell," it was a moment of profound relief—but as many families know, the journey doesn't end at the hospital doors.
Reclaiming the Teenage Years After Cancer
The transition back to "normal" life can be one of the most difficult phases of the cancer journey. For John Allen, the Austin Hatcher Foundation’s teen programs and camps provided the bridge he needed. These spaces allowed him to reconnect with himself outside of a clinical setting, surrounded by peers who truly understood his experience.
“Being at Austin Hatcher really helped me come out of my shell,” John Allen says. “I want to help other kids and teens going through this and show them it does get better.”
A Voice for Change: Advocacy in Washington, D.C.
Now 16, John Allen is turning his personal battle into a platform for others. He recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with lawmakers and advocate for increased pediatric cancer research and improved support for families.
“It was nice advocating for more funding... so hopefully one day no one has to deal with the disease or side effects from treatments,” he shared.
Today, John Allen is taking on a new role as an Austin Hatcher Teen Ambassador, using his voice to support families walking the path he once did, proving that there is a vibrant, purposeful life waiting on the other side of a diagnosis.
Join the Mission: Be a Voice for Families
John Allen’s journey from patient to advocate is at the heart of what we do. At the Austin Hatcher Foundation, we believe that "survivorship" is about more than just medicine—it’s about empowering the whole family to thrive.
You can help us provide these life-changing programs at no cost to families.
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