The news release stated the surgeons were able to remove the spots with clear margins, and AG—now a student at Heritage Middle School—is cancer-free for a second time.
The backstory
Throughout her journey with cancer, her family recalled how her school and the district rallied around her to share the strength of the Grapevine-Colleyville ISD family with her. According to the news release, to help AG feel surrounded by love and healing, GCISD has gathered around her a second time in various ways. The Bear Creek Elementary School community that helped her during her first diagnosis surprised the family with the “#AGTough” logo on their school marquee to welcome her home from surgery because she lives near the school in Euless.
The news release stated her friends, the administration and the staff at HMS continue to show how they are #AGTough. For picture day, HMS staff wore purple—AG’s favorite color—and #AGTough shirts to show their support. These pictures will be in the yearbook for AG to reflect, the release stated.
Quote of note
"We are so proud of her strength and fight,” HMS Principal Sheila Shimmick said. “She is definitely ‘AG tough,’ and we are all with her."
Diving in deeper
GCISD further rallied around the Bartel family through "purple out" games for both football and volleyball. According to the news release, AG is a cheerleader and the volleyball manager, so she saw only purple for two after-school events. Fans from HMS and the away team donned purple.
“The support from HMS and GCISD has meant so much to me and my family,” AG said. “Battling cancer is hard, but knowing I’m surrounded by so many friends, teachers, staff and coaches who are fighting with me keeps me living while I’m fighting. Thank you for showing our family so much love and support.”
