9-Year-Old Cancer Survivor Milana Price Honored by Birmingham’s StrongHer Initiative
Girl’s Inspiring Tale of Survival Showcased as Part of Celebratory Event
The city of Birmingham continues to honor women who make significant contributions to the community through the StrongHer initiative. Among this year’s honorees is none other than 9-year-old Milana Price, with her inspirational story of surviving cancer.
Unveiling of the StrongHer Art Exhibit
Last Friday, an art exhibition kicked off on the second-floor lobby of Birmingham City Hall, marking the International Women’s Day. Among the most inspirational figures featured was Milana “LaLa” Price, who battled a rare form of lung cancer at the tender age of four. Today, the Birmingham native stands strong, with two of her inspirational drawings brightening up the first-ever StrongHer exhibit.
Milana’s Journey
Battling with a rare form of lung cancer at an early age, Milana’s extraordinary journey was anything but ordinary. Yet, Milana’s resilience and indomitable spirit stood out even during the most challenging times. Despite being hospitalized for a week at Children’s of Alabama, she managed to maintain a positive outlook, thereby catching the eye of many, including Titusville Library Branch Manager Reba Williams.
Notably, Milana figures as the youngest speaker in the library’s breast cancer awareness event conduct in October 2023, where she discussed her journey of resilience. Moreover, this inspiring 9-year-old wants to be an artist and a pilot. One of her drawings featured in the StrongHer art exhibition comes with a heading of her own handwriting, “One day I’m gonna be a star,” epitomizing her ambition and undying spirit.
Other Honorees and Exhibits
Milana wasn’t the only shining figure in the StrongHer exhibit. Christina Johnson, another StrongHer honoree, had also battled non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in her childhood. Despite her past struggles, Johnson, a self-taught artist and the Artist in Residence for Railroad Park, curated around 20 pieces for the exhibit, some of which align with the StrongHer campaign.
Inspiring Many
Mayor Randall Woodfin and the residents of the city have taken note of these exceptional stories. In the honor’s speech, Mayor Woodfin declared that “Their artwork isn’t just on canvas or paper. Their works are masterpieces that showcase vibrant dreams full of courage and hope.” The strength and resilience shown by both Milana and Christina serve as an example to all.
Birmingham’s StrongHer initiative puts daily spotlight on city’s inspiring women throughout March, celebrating their strength, resilience, and the significant contributions they make to the city. To date, more than 150 stories have been written, some of which were collected into a book called “StrongHer: Women Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges in Birmingham”.
