Mallory Evans is 13 years old and a student at Thunder Ridge Middle School.  She was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) on September 13, 2006 at the age of 11. She completed 10 months of weekly chemotherapy and is now taking oral chemotherapy daily. Mallory will complete her treatment in January of 2009. One of the biggest challenges for Mallory through this battle with cancer was losing her hair, which was almost down to her hips before she started treatment.

Throughout her struggle with leukemia, Mallory has remained upbeat and positive. She was chosen to be on the Youth Advisory Council for the Children's Hospital and is an ambassador for the Children's Miracle Network. Mallory has a beautiful spirit that has continued to shine through. We are thrilled to have her as our Girl of the Year!

Preston Kilzer was diagnosed with Stage 3A Hodgkins Lymphoma in February of 2008 at the age of 5. Preston completed six cycles of ABV/COPP chemotherapy over the course of six months. He finished just in time for his 6th birthday and to start his very first year of school.

Preston is in kindergarten at Cherry Creek Charter Academy and enjoys spending time with his friends. His favorite activities include sports, reading and playing games. Preston plays on a soccer team and will hopefully be playing on a basketball team in the winter.

Preston has a sister, Kayli, age 4 and a brother, Trevin, age 2.

Tricia Kilzer says, "Proud doesn't say or mean enough for how we feel about Preston. He's truly our hero and warrior!"

We at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society feel truly blessed to have Preston as part of the 2009 Man & Woman of the year campaign.