Tommy Amenta is a typical teenager. The high school sophomore likes to hang out with friends, is an avid skateboarder, listens to classic rock and plays video games. He has two younger sisters who look up to him, and they should, as he is a rather incredible kid. Though Tommy isn't really sure if they know the whole story about how he's beat some big odds to have the privilege of teasing them regularly.

At 21 months old, Tommy was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in his middle ear called a rhabdomyosarcoma. Tommy's mom, Lisa, recalls thinking, "Kids don't get cancer, and not my baby…He's not even two yet." 

Not knowing what to expect upon their arrival at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the Amenta's were scared. "Tommy endured 54 weeks of chemo along with five weeks of radiation, and many tough days, but thanks to Roswell Park he is now a healthy teen," said Lisa. The care at Roswell Park left a lasting impression. 

"All the nurses were great. They not only took care of Tommy but they took care of me, and were voices of reason and reassurance during this difficult time," remembers Lisa. Now herself a nurse, Lisa works at Roswell Park helping others as they helped her.

Tommy doesn't remember much of his time as a cancer patient. "If I hadn't been told of what I'd been through, I wouldn't know it." Roswell Park has a special meaning to this day for him. "It is a place where you can feel safe, it has a warm atmosphere and is a good place to be," he said.

To help show his appreciation, Tommy is active with Carly's Club, volunteering his time at various events held throughout the year. He also regularly participates in art parties presented by The Paint Box Project.

His future career plans are uncertain, maybe college, maybe something else. He is a self defined free thinker who likes to ponder issues, events and the world in general. 

Tommy's and Lisa's message of hope for the holidays: “Take one day at a time, be positive and never ever give up hope."