SALT LAKE CITY (ABC 4 News) - Before heading off to play soccer for the University of Arizona, an Alta senior had to have a few medical tests. But the results were not what a young college student would expect - she had leukemia.
From there, Lexe Selman's life would change forever and her dreams of playing college soccer nearly disappeared.
When Lexe heard that she had cancer back on April 20, the first thing she thought about was her future as an Arizona Wildcat.
"I was scared...like if I was going to still be able to go to college," Lexe told ABC4 sports reporter Emerson Lotzia.
Lexe began chemotherapy just 24 hours later.
Over this past weekend, she received a visit from Arizona's head soccer coach, Lisa Oyen, and she had a special message for Lexe.
"She told me I had a spot on the team no matter what," said Lexe.
"We want her to be part of this program," said Arizona head coach Lisa Oyen. "If we have to wait a year...patience is a virtue and we can wait."
Lisa also said that in the unlikely event that Lexe is unable to play soccer, she still has a scholarship waiting for her.
"Arizona is the classiest institution that we've ever experienced," said Mark Selman, Lexe's dad. "We're Wildcats for life."
Lexe hopes to join the team in July of next year. Meanwhile, she wrapped up her first round of chemotherapy today and she's fought through it thanks to the love and support shown by her classmates, friends and family.
"Like when I saw the pictures of my school wearing orange...it was so touching," said Lexe. "I felt that I can do this...everyone is behind me so I know I'm going to be fine."
Orange is the color people where to show support for those battling Leukemia and Lexe's battle with the cancer will last at least another six months. But her courage and fight is something that's proved to be an inspiration to others.
"To see her smiling on day ten of chemotherapy is awesome and it makes things easier for all of us," said Mark.
"When it's over I'll be ready and more motivated to get back in," said Lexe.
"She's our hero," said Laurie Selman, Lexe's mother. "She's our example of strength and it keeps us going and keeps us strong."
One of Lexe's classmates, Ellee Duke, wrote a song and put it in
THIS VIDEO TRIBUTE for her.
To keep up with Lexe and the progress she's making, you've got to check out
THIS BLOG her sister started. It's already got about 18,000 hits from ten countries.
