Sixteen-year-old Haidyn Ulrich is many things: a devoted Iowa Hawkeyes fan, a talented performer, a straight-A student, an aspiring nurse, and, most importantly, a survivor of pediatric cancer. Her journey has been one of resilience, determination, and unwavering positivity—a story that has inspired her family, her care team, and countless others.

Haidyn had been a healthy child, rarely sick and full of life, until she was seven. After attending a birthday party, she began complaining of neck pain and fatigue. Her parents, Brianne and Nicklaus, initially thought she might have pulled a muscle. But as her symptoms persisted, Haidyn began sleeping for twenty-two hours at a time and losing weight, alarming her parents. Multiple visits to their local doctor yielded no answers, leaving the family frustrated and concerned. Brianne recalls a moment during an appointment when she sat on the floor, 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. Her tests revealed a startling truth: her blood cells were abnormal, and her condition was presenting as cancer. “Not the answer we wanted, but it was an answer,” Brianne recalls. Haidyn was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common childhood cancer, which affects the blood and bone marrow.

The family was immediately taken to Stead Family Children’s Hospital, where a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and therapists met them late that night. Haidyn’s parents were given a choice of how to share the news with their daughter. The next morning, they gently explained the diagnosis, and Haidyn, despite her age, approached the revelation with quiet courage. A port was inserted that day, and she began chemotherapy, administered both at home and at the hospital over more than two years.

During treatment, Haidyn spent periods in isolation at the hospital and at home to protect her weakened immune system. Her chemotherapy regimen was accompanied by spinal taps, pulmonary treatments to support her lungs, and cardiology care for her heart, as some medications affected her cardiac health. Despite the physical challenges, Haidyn maintained her spirit and found solace in music, learning to play piano and building strong relationships with her nurses and care team. She even requested an appointment on her birthday to bring cupcakes to staff members, showing her thoughtfulness and gratitude even amid her own struggles.

Haidyn’s resilience was strengthened by her family’s experiences. Before her diagnosis, her grandmother had come to live with the family while battling lymphoma. Watching her grandmother undergo treatment and lose her hair helped Haidyn understand that being sick was okay and that recovery was possible. This example provided her with emotional tools to navigate her own treatments.

After completing chemotherapy in April 2018, Haidyn surpassed six years cancer-free, a milestone that reflects not only her resilience but also the extraordinary care provided by Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Her story demonstrates the critical importance of early detection, coordinated care, and a strong support system for children facing serious illnesses.

Now a junior in high school, Haidyn thrives academically and socially. She participates in show choir and musicals, maintains straight-A grades, and is enrolled in additional courses with the goal of completing a certified nursing assistant program through Kirkwood Community College by the time she graduates. Her experiences as a patient have instilled in her a deep empathy and desire to give back. She plans to work with the Level 11 UI Dance Marathon Pediatric Cancer Center at Stead Family Children’s Hospital, where she can connect with children undergoing treatments and provide support and understanding only someone who has been through cancer herself can offer.

“She can say, ‘I know what you’ve been through,’” Brianne says. Haidyn’s personal experience gives her a unique ability to comfort, encourage, and inspire other young patients facing their own battles. Stephen Rumelhart, PA-C, who treated Haidyn during her time at the hospital, notes, “Haidyn’s positive outlook on life has helped her from day one of her cancer journey. She remains that same person today, always striving for the best in herself and others.”

Haidyn’s life is also filled with joy outside the hospital. Named after legendary coach Hayden Fry, she is an avid Hawkeye fan and has had the thrill of meeting punter Tory Taylor during a UI Dance Marathon event. She cherishes her family, including her older sister, who participates in Dance Marathon, and enjoys the camaraderie and support offered through programs designed for siblings of patients.

Despite the challenges she faced at such a young age, Haidyn has emerged as a strong, compassionate, and determined young woman. She regularly returns to Stead Family Children’s Hospital for checkups, maintaining her health while continuing to dream and excel. Her story is a testament to courage, resilience, and the profound impact of expert care combined with a loving support network.

Haidyn Ulrich’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that children facing life-threatening illnesses are capable of extraordinary strength. Through her determination, empathy, and unwavering spirit, she continues to inspire everyone around her, proving that even the toughest battles can be met with courage, grace, and hope.