Contact Us
Get in touch with Will Carpenter AYA Cancer Foundation to discover more about our work and how to donate.
We thank you for your support.
Share Your Story or Words of Encouragement
Your voice can make a difference. Whether you're a parent, sibling, friend, or survivor, sharing your story, or simply a few words of encouragement, can offer strength to families facing Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma. Every message reminds them they’re not alone and helps build a stronger, more supportive community.
Together, We Can Create Change
Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma is rare, aggressive, and often strikes without warning—mostly in children and teens. While it may respond to treatment at first, nearly all patients face relapse, with few options left.
In memory of our son, Will Carpenter, our foundation is focused on driving change through research, awareness, and support. Together, we’re working toward earlier diagnoses, better treatments, and real hope for every child and family affected by this devastating disease.
Where There's A Will, There's A Way.
Will’s Story
His name is William Cole Carpenter, and his story is a testament to an unimaginable fight for life.
In the fall of 2021, William was a vibrant freshman at the University of Central Florida, excelling as an electrical engineering student, a record-breaking swimmer, and a passionate competitive fisherman. His life was brimming with promise and the everyday joys of a young man on the cusp of his dreams.
What started out looking like a simple sinus infection quickly escalated into a terrifying medical odyssey. Despite the persistent efforts of his pharmacist mother and numerous doctors, William's condition worsened, leading to a Christmas Eve diagnosis that no parent ever wants to hear: a large, aggressive mass in his left sinus. This marked the beginning of a relentless battle against Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma, a rare and devastating cancer that would challenge every fiber of his being.
Fishing for Hope: Wish Excursions for Young Adults
Fishing for Hope is a special wish-granting program just for Adolescents and Young Adults (AYA), ages 18 to 24, who are currently undergoing treatment for this rare and aggressive cancer.
At an age when most are chasing dreams, education, and independence, young adults with fusion-positive alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma are fighting for their lives.
We grant fully arranged fishing excursion wishes—designed to bring a moment of peace, joy, and connection to young adults and their families during one of the most challenging times of their lives.
