Karina Robertson

Gig Harbor High School student demonstrates strength, perseverance while battling cancer

Karina Robertson has a high school resume that may be typical of an outstanding student. But what makes her achievements impressive, including her 3.5 grade-point average, is the fact that she accomplished them despite missing 1 1/2 years of high school while battling leukemia.

Robertson was determined to graduate on time, so as soon as her health improved, she took strode toward that goal. While enrolled full-time at Gig Harbor High School, she took additional credits through Tacoma Community College’s Running Start program and online.

Robertson’s teacher say she never asked for extensions or used her illness as an excuse, instead working harder to make up for lost time.

“There are times in an educator’s life when you pause to wonder who taught whom and who taught the most valuable lessons,” said Kyle Fordyce Lytle, a GHHS counselor. “Gig Harbor High School taught Karina academics that hopefully will broaden her understanding of the world and open doors for her future. Karina taught us that courage can come in a 90-pound girl losing hair, pale as pale can be, and so tired that even thinking was at times too much.

“Karina taught us that, to succeed, one can overcome unbelievable obstacles such as pain, nausea, frightening medical procedures and isolation. Karina demonstrated strength in surmounting these obstacles, not just once but twice.”

Robertson said her hard work and faith helped her overcome obstacles, along with her desire to not be held back by cancer.

“I am really happy I’ve been able to persevere and meet my goals,” she said.

Not only will Robertson graduate on time, she also made time to get involved with extracurricular activities. She participated on the school’s swim team, played tennis and volunteered for various activities.

Some of her volunteer efforts — at the Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church nursery and day camp — may lead to a career path. Robertson said she loves young children and she wants to become a fourth- or fifth-grade teacher and make a difference in children’s lives.

Robertson even organized her own camp for three years, at her home, with the help of a few friends. About 50 children attended the camp each year, and the young leaders kept them busy with a variety of activities.

Robertson’s mom, also a teacher, inspired her daughter.

“I love working with kids,” Robertson said. “I wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I had a lot of great teachers I really admired and looked up to.”

Karina Robertson

Education: Senior, Gig Harbor High School

GPA: 3.5

Parents: Ron and Kate Robertson

Activities/achievements: Varsity swimming; tennis; Students Against Destructive Decisions member; walked half-marathon to raise funds for Fred Hutchison Cancer Center; volunteer at Chapel Hill Presbyterian Church; Young Life; Vacation Bible School

Favorite Teacher: Mrs. Van Dragt. “My writing skills improved, and I feel prepared for college,” Robertson said. “I like her as a person; she makes class interesting and has a good sense of humor.”

Best thing about high school: “I’ve enjoyed the friends I made, the teachers and just being a teenager. It’s been fun.”