It took a life-altering disease to change the focus for Lauren Hill.
The Mount St. Joseph University (Ohio) basketball player was shy. She asked for God’s help when she diagnosed with an inoperable brain cancer.
“I asked God if I could do anything,” she said. “I told (God) I’d take every opportunity to speak for the kids who can’t speak.”
Two million dollars of donations later, Hill’s quest was complete. She had helped others to find a future when there was limited time for her. She had helped raise money to fight a form of cancer called Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma.
Along the way, Hill inspired others while making a couple of baskets left-handed when her right side would not work anymore. Her basket when Mount St. Joseph played Hiram College was replayed time after time.
She exhibited poise and confidence even when her pain was insufferable.
“I really hope it’s going to bring a change to the world,” she said. “Nobody should be told their child has a limited time to live.’’
She tried her best to live in the moment because she knew her days were numbered.
Her philosophy was simple — “I just want to be with the people I love.”
Hill gained some inspiration from Katy Perry and the song “Roar.”
“I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter, dancing through the fire. ‘Cause I am a champion, and you’re gonna’ hear me roar.”
Hill could not help herself. But she sacrificed every moment to help others.

Jim Misunas