Riley Joye Sorenson is graduating from Fountain Hills High School this week.

Riley is a four-time brain cancer survivor. She was first diagnosed at the age of 11 months, in 1994. She is now almost 21 years old.

Riley is truly a miracle and a pure example of “It takes a village!”

Riley has lived in Fountain Hills since 2008 and gives thanks to the teachers, staff and bus drivers at FHHS for the past six years. She is currently helping out at Tamaccio’s Salon Spa after school and loves working.

Riley’s awesome senior pictures for her graduation announcement are courtesy of our sweet neighbor Heather at no charge, according to Riley’s mom, Jami Lu Mandros.

Riley’s heart-shaped amethyst class ring was custom made for her at Sami Fine Jewelry. Her class ring, as well as a very happy Christmas, were made possible by donations from a local group of friends who lovingly refer to themselves as “The Goddesses,” and this includes friend Pat.

The fantastic group of people at AFC Physical Medicine work very hard to help Riley feel better. Due to the various brain tumors, Riley continues to suffer 24/7 headaches, she now has blindness and is partially disabled.

“God blessed her with no brain damage, and as a result she keeps us all on our collective toes,” says mom.

“Dr. Summers rocks as Riley’s primary physician at Fountain Hills Family Practice. The gals at Deluxe Nail Spa always make us feel special and pampered. Tommy Holloway will be singing to Riley out of the goodness of his heart at Euro Pizza Cafe after graduation.”

Riley’s mom Jami is one of the friendly servers at Euro Pizza Cafe.

“We believe that Riley’s life was saved in order to bring joy (Joye is her middle name!) and inspiration to everyone who she meets,” mom says.

“No one goes away untouched by her strength and positivity. Her laugh is totally contagious! Riley wants to thank everyone for their kindness!”

The people at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Envita Medical Center, The Foundation for Blind Children and The Arizona Schools for the Deaf and Blind have all been phenomenal throughout this journey, Jami adds.

Riley’s future is bright as she will be attending a six-week program this summer sponsored by The Foundation for Blind Children and she will be living in a dorm at ASU in the Teen to Work program. After that is completed she will her continue her education with the FBC.

“Riley is looking forward to becoming a first time auntie in November,” mom concludes.

“So, you see, in addition to Riley’s most loving family, who has always been there for her, it does ‘take a village,’ and we are so lucky to be part of the village of Fountain Hills!”