Two best friends, one form of cancer

MEMPHIS -- It's the little faces of young children that St. Jude is known for treating. But teenagers, up to age 18, also depend on the hospital.

Shes the drama queen.

They sound like typical teenagers. Amanda Bell and Vivian Laws know their situations make them anything but.

"We both understand what each other is going through and how difficult it can be on some days and how wonderful it is to have friends you can talk to about this," Amanda Bell-Age 15.

Growing up some 600 miles apart, both girls were diagnosed around the same time with the most common type of bone cancer, Osteosarcoma.

"I asked is it fatal? And of course they said with cancer there's always a chance of that but most people in your situation do fine and we have an appointment set up for you tomorrow at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Vivian Laws-Age 14.

The pair met undergoing intense treatments and grueling physical therapy.

"I had a total femur replacement, which is a total hip replacement and whole femur bone replaced and knee replacement. It's definitely a lot to go through, Bell.

St. Jude understands the toll being different can take on a teenager. The hospital works to cater to their special needs.

"They have a teen prom that's coming up that we're both going to. Because the reality is some teens might not make it to their proms, Bell.

Amanda and Vivian have developed a bond here at St. Jude made up of tears and triumphs. They say they will never forget their friendship, or the ones they've lost along the way.

"That is the reality and you do lose friends. Visiting your friends that the reality is they're on Hospice at 9 -8 years old and stuff. It's nothing a kid should have to go through, Laws.

Vivian and Amanda credit the work of those at St. Jude for their improved progress. And to those who have donated insuring the hospitals financial mission.

"If the rolls were reversed and it was them, or their child or someone close to them, they would want somebody to help them with the financial burden of treatment, Bell.

"I came out alive and I met so many great people. I wouldn't have changed anything, Laws.

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[dottymay68]

my grandchild is there at st judes her name is zowie kile she 5 yr old

[nba791]

My lil cuz has cancer in his blood! His bid operation is soon I pray for him everday before I go to bed and pray that his mom does not loose another son from cancer!!

[godrodemyscooter]

why would the reporter stand in front of a sign that says vomet? what a cunt

[PrincessGoezRawr]

I had ostesarcoma on my left tibia, i had a limb salvage surgery, its been 5 mnths since my last quimo now