**College Athlete’s Journey from ‘Routine’ Dental Procedure to Cancer Recovery**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kendall-schara-1-052526-023e9432a3dc49d1b34707c1ba40cccc.jpg)
In an unexpected turn of events, Kendall Schara, a 21-year-old volleyball captain at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, has become a beacon of hope and resilience after a routine dental procedure led to a life-altering cancer diagnosis. The ordeal began in early 2025 when she underwent a wisdom tooth extraction that ultimately resulted in a severe infection, leaving doctors perplexed about her deteriorating health.
After months of uncertainty, Kendall underwent a bone marrow biopsy, leading to the shocking revelation that she had acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), a particularly aggressive form of blood cancer that typically affects older adults. The diagnosis came in April 2025, leaving her family utterly devastated. Kendall reflected on the moment, stating, “It was just the most devastating moment I’ve probably faced in my life,” capturing the profound impact of the news on not only herself but also her loved ones.
With a determination to fight this life-threatening illness, Kendall began a rigorous course of chemotherapy at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Centre of Northwestern University in Chicago. However, just a month into her treatment, the medical team recommended a stem cell transplant as the next necessary step, complicating an already challenging situation.
In a turn of fate, doctors discovered that Kendall’s younger sister, Elle, was a perfect match for the transplant. “It was one of the brightest moments of this journey,” Kendall recalled, reflecting on the bittersweet relief of having a familial connection that could save her life. By July 2025, Kendall received Elle’s stem cells, marking a pivotal moment in her fight against cancer.
Since the transplant, Kendall has made significant strides in her recovery. In November 2025, she celebrated reaching the milestone of 100 days post-transplant with an emotional post on Instagram. “I’m so excited to be at this point and so proud of everything I’ve accomplished,” she wrote, highlighting the various challenges she faced through chemotherapy and hospitalisations. Despite the battles, she shared an optimistic outlook for her future, expressing that while there is still a long road ahead, she was focused on reclaiming her life.
Kendall’s health journey has not only transformed her perspective but also sparked a desire to advocate for stem cell donation. She fervently believes in the importance of expanding the donor registry and shared, “I think it is inspiring to be someone who can save a life.” Her experience has prompted her to raise awareness within her community and beyond about the critical need for stem cell donors.
Financially supported by a GoFundMe campaign initiated to aid her recovery, Kendall’s story has resonated widely, with over £51,000 raised toward a goal of £70,000. Recent updates on the fundraising page indicate that Kendall’s latest bone marrow biopsy returned clear of any signs of leukaemia, a significant victory in her ongoing battle. Her next follow-up will occur in August, keeping her family and supporters hopeful.
As Kendall balances her educational commitments with her health priorities, she remains steadfast in sharing her journey with others. With cancer in remission and continuing her maintenance therapy, she represents resilience in the face of insurmountable odds. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of community support.
As the months progress, Kendall Schara stands as a powerful testimony to the strength of spirit and the potential for recovery. With a foundation of support from her family, friends, and the wider community, she aims to inspire others facing similar struggles, encouraging a proactive approach to health and well-being.