This photo of Ayisha Hussain was taken in April.

In August 2010, Ayisha Hussain, then a North Penn High School student, was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma. Doctors found a bone tumor on her spine that impacted her lungs and Hussain immediately began many rounds of chemotherapy. Hussain said a lot of the chemotherapy drugs her doctors tried were failing so they decided to experiment with research drugs. Finally, doctors were able to get her tumor under some control.

Hussain went on to graduate from North Penn High School and begin her freshman year at Penn State Abington studying to become a Child Life Specialist. When she finishes this degree she hopes to work in a hospital just like her specialist helping young patients to brave the world of doctors visits, treatments and procedures.

Not only does her career choice reflect her desire to help others, but Hussain plans to host a fundraising picnic at her parents house this up-coming weekend to benefit CHOP.

"The research drugs really helped me and there's not a lot of money to help develop them," Hussain said. "I'm raising money to help create new drugs."

Vinny's Pizzarama in Hatfield and Valentino's Bistro in Lansdale donated food to the picnic to show their support to the cause. Those who want to contribute to Hussain's efforts to raise money for the Cancer Center at CHOP can do so at Valentino's Bistro located at 518 N. Broad St. in Lansdale. There is a large jar on their counter to help raise funds for the cause. Hussain's goal for now is to raise $300.

In an effort to gain more control over her tumor, doctors will start Hussain on a new chemotherapy drug in mid-August. She anticipates being back in the hospital throughout the fall, hoping to attend Penn State Abington again in the new year. For now, she is enjoying her relatively strong health and looking forward to Saturday's picnic.

Ayisha with Carly Rae Jepsen.