Sixteen-year-old Haidyn Ulrich embodies resilience, courage, and an unwavering positive spirit. A devoted Iowa Hawkeyes fan, talented performer, straight-A student, and aspiring nurse, Haidyn’s most remarkable role is that of a survivor of pediatric cancer. Her journey has inspired not only her family but also the team of doctors, nurses, and countless others who have followed her story.

From Healthy Child to Cancer Diagnosis

Haidyn was a healthy, energetic child, rarely sick, until the age of seven. After attending a birthday party, she began experiencing neck pain and extreme fatigue. Her parents, Brianne and Nicklaus, initially suspected a pulled muscle. However, as Haidyn began sleeping for twenty-two hours at a time and losing weight, their concern grew. Numerous visits to local doctors provided no answers, leaving the family frustrated and anxious. Brianne recalls a pivotal moment when she sat on the floor during an appointment, determined not to leave until someone discovered what was wrong with her daughter.

Finally, a nurse practitioner connected Haidyn’s case to University of Iowa Health Care, where tests revealed a devastating truth: her blood cells were abnormal, and she was facing acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), the most common childhood cancer affecting the blood and bone marrow. “Not the answer we wanted, but it was an answer,” Brianne recalls.

Immediate Care and Courage in the Face of Fear

Haidyn and her family were immediately admitted to Stead Family Children’s Hospital, where a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and therapists awaited them. That evening, her parents were presented with a choice on how to share the news with their young daughter. The next morning, with courage beyond her years, Haidyn received the diagnosis. That very day, she had a port inserted and began a rigorous chemotherapy regimen that lasted more than two years, combining hospital and home treatments.

During this time, Haidyn often spent long periods in isolation to protect her weakened immune system. She underwent spinal taps, pulmonary treatments, and cardiology care, as some medications affected her heart. Despite these physical challenges, Haidyn maintained her optimism and determination, finding joy in music by learning piano and forming deep bonds with her nurses and care team. Her thoughtfulness shone even during treatment; she once requested an appointment on her birthday to bring cupcakes to staff members, demonstrating gratitude amidst her own battle.

Family Support and Emotional Strength

Haidyn’s resilience was strengthened by her family’s prior experiences with illness. Before Haidyn’s diagnosis, her grandmother had battled lymphoma while living with the family. Witnessing her grandmother undergo treatment, lose her hair, and remain strong helped Haidyn understand that being sick was not the end, and that recovery was possible. This early exposure provided her with emotional tools to navigate the challenges of her own treatments.

After completing chemotherapy in April 2018, Haidyn achieved a significant milestone: over six years cancer-free. This accomplishment reflects not only her personal courage but also the extraordinary care provided by the Stead Family Children’s Hospital team. Her story highlights the importance of early detection, coordinated care, and a supportive family environment in combating life-threatening illnesses in children.

Thriving Beyond Cancer

Now a junior in high school, Haidyn continues to excel academically and socially. She participates in show choir and musicals, maintains straight-A grades, and is pursuing additional coursework to complete a certified nursing assistant program through Kirkwood Community College before graduation.

Her personal experience with cancer has instilled in her a deep sense of empathy and a desire to give back to others facing similar challenges. Haidyn plans to work with the Level 11 UI Dance Marathon Pediatric Cancer Center at Stead Family Children’s Hospital, offering support and understanding to young patients—a perspective only someone who has endured cancer can provide.

“She can say, ‘I know what you’ve been through,’” Brianne explains. Haidyn’s journey allows her to comfort, encourage, and inspire other children facing serious illnesses. Stephen Rumelhart, PA-C, who treated Haidyn, notes, “Her positive outlook has helped her from day one. She remains the same person today, always striving for the best in herself and others.”

Joy, Family, and Community

Outside the hospital, Haidyn embraces life fully. Named after legendary coach Hayden Fry, she is an avid Hawkeye fan and cherishes moments like meeting punter Tory Taylor during UI Dance Marathon events. She values her family deeply, including her older sister who participates in Dance Marathon, and enjoys connecting with siblings of other patients through hospital programs.

Despite facing life-threatening challenges at such a young age, Haidyn has emerged as a compassionate, strong, and determined young woman. She continues to attend regular checkups while maintaining her health, pursuing her dreams, and giving back to the community that supported her.

A Story of Courage, Resilience, and Hope

Haidyn Ulrich’s journey demonstrates that children facing life-threatening illnesses possess extraordinary strength. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, empathy, and positivity. By combining expert medical care with unwavering family support, she has not only survived but thrived.

Through her determination and generosity, Haidyn inspires others to face challenges with courage, grace, and hope. Her experiences remind us all that even the toughest battles can be met with a spirit that refuses to give up, and that compassion and understanding can profoundly impact the lives of those around us.

Haidyn Ulrich is more than a survivor; she is a beacon of hope for pediatric cancer patients, their families, and anyone facing adversity, proving that with courage and love, we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.