CHICAGO, Aug. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is upon us this September, The Nikolas Ritschel Foundation is continuing its mission to raise awareness for an underserved and sometimes overlooked population of cancer patients, 18–24 year olds. This age group is still considered by many to be kids - many of whom attend college or are just starting their careers and independent lives.
Nikolas Ritschel was one of these young adults, who at 17 years old was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma and passed a few years later at the young age of 21. While Nik personally experienced and saw the struggles and loneliness this age group faces, he also experienced moments of hope and joy. One of those times was when he applied for and was granted a wish from a foundation during his battle with cancer.
However, it was when Nik met a young man by the name of Nate whose wish was denied because he was diagnosed one month after his 18 birthday that Nik decided to start The Nikolas Ritschel Foundation. He wanted to help other 18-24 year cancer patients experience the hope and joy he did by having wishes granted too. The organization run by Nik’s mom, Kelli Ritschel Boehle, has granted close to 400 wishes over the past 12 years.
This year alone, the organization has granted 29 wishes so far with 23 more scheduled before year-end. “I do this to continue my son’s incredible dying wish to help others and to see the look of joy on the faces of the all the b.