NEW CASTLE, Pa. — A softball player at New Castle High School is battling a rare form of cancer and her friends, classmates and teammates are all going to bat for her.
Raequelle Young is 17 years old, a junior and the first baseman for the New Castle softball team.
She was recently diagnosed with chordoma, a slow growing bone cancer that was found on the base of her skull.
Her teammate, Morgan Piatt said she was shocked when she heard the news.
“She’s one of my closest friends and someone so sweet going through this, it hits home you know,” said Piatt.
Young just underwent surgery to remove her tumor. Piatt says it was successful, but she may have to get radiation in a different state.
Morgan created a GoFundMe page to help raise money for any additional treatment Young may need.
“New Castle is a tight nit community, and they will always help one of their own,” said Piatt.
Piatt is also selling T-shirts to help ease the financial burden. 11 News asked her how Young is holding up.
“She’s been having a hard time. A 10 hour plus surgery is going to take a toll on your body but with her family and friends all around her, I think she’s going to be in high spirits,” said Piatt.
The school district is holding a fundraising event called “The King and Queen of Hearts” where students raise money for a certain charity.
“We are doing the ‘Canes for Kids’ fund which helps any kids in New Castle with financial needs,” said Piatt.
This year, the donations will go to Young and her family.
Click here to donate to the GoFundMe.
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