Danielle Adams

PHS senior keeps a positive outlook while fighting cancer, perseveres to keep up with her plans

Danielle Adams had big dreams for her senior year, but many of them were cut short when she was diagnosed with leukemia. Instead of giving up on her senior year, Adams said she looked at the situation as an opportunity.

“I have accepted wholeheartedly that it is not the obstacles with which we’re faced, but rather the way we overcome those obstacles that really matter,” Adams said. “I have made my decision to be positive in all aspects of my life.”

Adams is in full clinical remission after months of chemotherapy. She said overcoming cancer was an important milestone.

Despite missing some school days and spending a lot of time in treatments, she kept up her work to graduate with a 3.194 grade-point average.

“It’s really important to not let obstacles get in the way of your future plans,” she said. “I don’t believe in making excuses for things.”

Adams’ future plans include being an elementary school teacher.

A varsity cheerleader of four years, she also worked with 5- and 6-year-old girls at mini-cheer camps during three summers, teaching them the basics of the sport.

“It was so fun to see them change from being shy to learning to perform,” Adams said. “They’re so full of life and excited. I’m really proud of them.”

Adams said she was shy when she joined Peninsula High’s cheerleading squad. At the time, she was one of only three freshman girls on the team. She said it was a bit intimidating and scary, but being put into the spotlight helped her overcome her fears.

Adams said it requires focus on the task instead of her own feelings when the team works hard for a month for a two-minute routine. Her dream of competing at state wasn’t realized this year because of her battle with cancer, but Adams said she knows the disease is “just a speed bump on this road that we call life.”

“Danielle has been an amazing individual on the team,” Peninsula High cheer coach Kathy Crowley said. “She is always up for any challenge.

“Danielle is a strong, silent leader and uses that effectively as a captain of the cheer squad.”

Adams has participated in many leadership activities at PHS, including as part of the Associated Student Body, planning assemblies and other events. She’s been described as an energetic person who constantly supports those around her.

“Her glass is always half full,” PHS teacher Janice Johansen said. “She will bring an intelligence and attitude that will be cherished by all those who are fortunate to meet and work with her.”

Danielle Adams

Education: Senior, Peninsula High School

GPA: 3.194

Parents: Sherri and Mark Adams

Activities/achievements: Leadership class; varsity cheerleading (four years); mini-cheercamp leader; ASB officer; Relay for Life; cheerleading captain, state qualification, Most Spirited award, Spirit Stick (inspirational) award; Scholar Athlete; volunteer for Winterfest, Open House, Scholarship Assembly; Purdy Walkathon.

Favorite teacher: Jean Malmin, second grade, because she “had more faith in her students that I have ever seen,” Adams said. “She inspired me every day to go the extra mile and work just a little bit harder than the day before.”

Best thing about high school: The support and positive attitude of staff and students. “Everyone is always willing to lend a helping hand to brighten up your day — even if it’s just a little bit,” she said.