Nine-Year-Old Cancer Survivor Among Honorees in Birmingham’s StrongHer Initiative

Four years ago, Birmingham resident Milana Price, affectionately known as “LaLa”, received a diagnosis that would change her life: a rare form of lung cancer. At just four years old, she underwent surgery to remove half of her right lung and a mass behind it. Her resilience and positive outlook post-surgery have been nothing short of inspirational, earning her a place among this year’s StrongHer honorees.

The StrongHer Initiative

The StrongHer Initiative, launched in 2019 by Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, aims to honor the unsung women in the community who make a significant impact in their respective fields. In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, the first-ever StrongHer exhibit was opened, featuring two of Milana’s drawings among other notable works. The exhibit is set to be on display until mid-April.

Despite her youth, Milana is one of the most inspiring stories of this initiative. Remarkably, she was back to her usual self shortly after surgery, resuming her typical activities and maintaining a positive attitude. It is this spirit that captured the attention of Reba Williams, the Titusville Library Branch Manager, leading to Milana’s invitation to speak about her journey at a breast cancer awareness event.

Art and Aspirations

Milana, now nine years old, dreams of becoming a star—an aspiration she’s expressed through art. Her work displayed at the StrongHer exhibit includes a drawing that reads “One day I’m gonna be a star,” penned in her handwriting. The ambitious young artist also has dreams of exploring the skies as a pilot in the future.

Joining her works on display are the creations of another StrongHer honoree, Christina Johnson. Johnson, herself a cancer survivor, is a self-taught artist who contributes 20 inspirational pieces to the StrongHer exhibit. Inspired by her experiences as a cancer survivor, wife, mother, and woman, Johnson’s pieces reflect the strength and resilience characteristic of women.

Strength in Unity

Mayor Woodfin underlined the importance of their contributions, saying, “Christina and Milana remind us that strength knows no bounds and that hope can shine through even in the darkest of times. Their artwork isn’t just on canvas or paper. Their works are masterpieces that showcase vibrant dreams full of courage and hope.” Johnson echoed these sentiments, saying that “we carry a great strength within us, and when you put us together, there’s even more strength.”

Inspiring Future Generations

Through the StrongHer initiative, a new honoree is highlighted each day in March on the city’s website and social media pages. Since its inception, over 150 stories of inspiring women in Birmingham have been shared. In November 2023, a book titled “StrongHer: Women Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges in Birmingham” was released to commemorate the stories of these incredible women.