My name is Maya, I am 11 years old, and I have cancer. I was diagnosed in October 2012 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and I am in my eighth month of treatment. I live by the motto of Bob Marley’s song Three Little Birds and believe that ‘Every little thing is gonna be alright.’

Even though I am still going through treatment for my own cancer, I am already working on ways to support other kids with cancer. I have everything I need and I want to bring a little sunshine to other kids at the hospital.

Since I’ve had cancer and lost all of my hair, I was afraid people would look at me differently. But with headbands, I’ve gained confidence to go out in public bald, and I’ve gotten lots of compliments.

My very favorite headband is the one I received from Headbands of Hope. It means even more to me that they donate money to St. Baldrick’s for every headband they sell. Helping other kids with cancer made the idea of losing my hair a lot easier to take. Thank you to Headbands of Hope for bringing a little sunshine to me and other kids dealing with cancer.