From hospital beds to a high school diploma — Aubrey Barnett proves that nothing is impossible.
Aubrey’s Journey: From Diagnosis to Triumph
In Loganville, Georgia, 17-year-old Aubrey Barnett has just walked across the stage at Walnut Grove High School, proudly receiving her diploma. But this wasn’t just a graduation — it was a moment of victory, resilience, and celebration, five months after beating cancer.
Courtesy Barnett family
Diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin B-cell cancer, Aubrey’s senior year turned into a battle for her life. But on May 20, she stood tall in her cap and gown — a survivor, a graduate, and an inspiration to all.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
Back in September 2024, Aubrey was living a busy, joyful life: running cross country, cheering at football games, working part-time, and preparing for her final year of high school.
Then came the shock: a growing lump on her neck turned out to be Burkitt lymphoma, a cancer known for spreading quickly to the head, neck, and central nervous system. She was just 16 years old when doctors gave her the devastating news.
Courtesy Barnett family
“I didn’t believe it at first,” Aubrey shared. “I was living a normal life. I thought, there’s no way I have cancer.”
A Mother’s Pain, A Daughter’s Strength
Her mother, Chancey Barnett, recalled the heartbreak of hearing the diagnosis:
“It went from a tiny lump to the size of her jaw. It was just heart-wrenching,” she said. “But even then, I looked at her and knew she’d be OK — she’s a fighter.”
Months of Chemotherapy and Courage
Aubrey endured three months of intense chemotherapy, including painful injections into her spinal cord. She lost her hair, battled debilitating mouth sores that made it nearly impossible to eat or talk — and yet, she never gave up.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Despite her hospital stays, Aubrey’s classmates never forgot her. In a beautiful show of love, they voted her Homecoming Queen — while she was still undergoing treatment.
Remission, Recovery, and a Powerful Future
Aubrey completed treatment and rang the celebration bell at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center in Atlanta — a moment of pure triumph.
Now in remission, she’s planning for the future with renewed purpose. This fall, she’ll attend Emmanuel University, continuing her love for cross country and track while studying exercise science to become a pediatric physical therapist — so she can help other children, just like her, overcome adversity.
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
A Message of Hope for the World
Through it all, Aubrey has never lost her positive outlook.
“Whatever you’re going through, you can get through it with the right mindset,” she says. “If you only focus on the negatives, it’ll consume you. But if you focus on the positives, you’ll come out stronger. Everything happens for a reason.”
Praise from Her School and Community
Principal Lindsey Allen of Walnut Grove High School summed it up perfectly:
“Aubrey’s courage and strength have inspired our entire school. Her victory over cancer while excelling as a student is a powerful reminder of what hope can achieve.”