giving
A Local Student's Impact
for Breast Cancer
Ryan Will lost his mother last year but 'walks on' in her honor
By Kelly Twedell
W
hile most high school aged boys
are consumed with sports, video games and hanging out with
friends, one Massey Hill student has a different perspective on life as he was
moved to action following the loss of his mother
to breast cancer.
Stephanie Ann Will, a Fort Bragg spouse, lost her battle
with cancer on March 26, 2012, leaving behind a husband
on active duty and three children, Ryan, 16, Kyle, 13, and
Abbygail, 9. Her legacy lives on through the efforts of her
family, notably her oldest son's dedication.
Ryan Will, a high school junior, has been recognized for
his efforts to bring awareness about breast cancer to our
community through organizing and participating in local walks. At last year's Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in
Charlotte, Ryan was one of the keynote speakers. "It was an
amazing experience. It was intimidating at first, due to the
massive crowd, but I just talked about my mom and why I
was there," said Ryan. "I'm very proud of myself that I was
able to do it. I've used that experience as a way to break
down barriers in my own life."
After being diagnosed with breast cancer on November
21, 2003, Stephanie battled the disease for more than eight
years. Because of her strong belief in finding a cure for cancer, only weeks after her mastectomy surgery, she participated in Boston's Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in May 2004
and also the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer in Charlotte in
2008. Her husband, Dan, along with Ryan, have signed up
CityViewNC.com | 33
