Christopher Burge

Chris is a stage IV colorectal cancer patient and survivor. He is currently a graduate student in Applied Linguistics and Intercultural Studies at Maynooth University in Maynooth, Ireland. Prior to his move to Ireland, he worked as a middle and high school social studies teacher in Dallas, TX. He achieved a life-long dream in November 2024 when he appeared on Jeopardy! (he blames the loss partially on FOLFOXIRI). Aside from school and losing on television, he enjoys reading, travel, diving, and playing niche sports (currently Australian rules football and rounders).

Mursal

Mursal is a published poet and cancer survivor whose resilience and creativity have profoundly shaped her personal and professional journey. Diagnosed with cancer during her undergraduate studies, she navigated the challenges of treatment while maintaining her academic commitments. This experience not only challenged her strength but also fostered a profound bond with art, nature, and writing, seeing them as essential means of expression and healing.

Upon completing her treatment and earning her degree, Mursal developed a strong commitment to community engagement, with a particular focus on supporting individuals facing similar health challenges. Her dedication to advocacy is reflected in her volunteer work with cancer support groups and mentoring initiatives that aim to empower others through shared experiences and compassion.

Mursal’s debut poetry collection, In Awe of Becoming, published alongside the work of other cancer survivors, showcases her evocative exploration of survival, vulnerability, and hope. Drawing inspiration from the natural world and her own journey, her work resonates with readers for its emotional authenticity.

Today, Mursal spends her free time mentoring young women who are cancer survivors, supporting them through the complexities of recovery and the creative expression process. Through her guidance, she fosters resilience and self-discovery, helping these women find their voices through art and writing while nurturing supportive communities built on empathy and shared experience.

Danielle H.

Danielle was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer at 34. She’s now 2.5 years cancer-free and passionate about supporting other young adults navigating cancer. As a school social worker, Danielle has always been driven to help others—and Cactus Cancer Society deepened that passion by introducing her to creative coping through their art programs. Now, as a Rooted Voices Advisory Board member, she’s excited to help expand access to meaningful, age-appropriate support. Danielle lives in D.C. with her cat, Ash (famous for his extra toe and fist bumps), and enjoys kickboxing, crocheting, and spending time with friends and family.