In Aug. 2016, Lola Muñoz, 13, was diagnosed with diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), an inoperable tumor on the brainstem. Fewer than 10% of children with DIPG survive two years following diagnosis. In the past 40 years, none of the over 250 clinical trials for DIPG have shown improvements in chances of survival.

Because there are no drugs specifically targeted towards children with DIPG, doctors use drugs approved by the FDA that are meant for adults and tailor them for children in Phase I trials. Lola decided herself to participate in a trial at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. There was no guarantee that the trial would have any effect on her tumor. Knowing this, Lola underwent treatment to benefit DIPG research. Sacrificing her body to potentially help the next child with DIPG was more important than her quantity of life, exemplifying Lola's selfless nature.

Lola's mother, Melissa Muñoz, comforts Lola before bed while admitted to the hospital on Dec. 16, 2016, after contracting an infection. Melissa has been by her side every step of the way. She has supported Lola through instilling that because it is her body, decisions regarding treatment should be Lola's choice.

Upon completing six weeks of radiation therapy prior to participating in the trial at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Lola began to experience hair loss on the lower back of her head.

Melissa comforts Lola after vomiting from taking her chemo. Lola learns how to grapple with the ways in which DIPG has become a limitation on her childhood.

Lola's father, Agustin Muñoz, teaches Lola how to float on her back at a hotel swimming pool on April 9, 2017. After five months of chemo, Lola met her breaking point and ended the trial, a decision based on her quality of life. Revitalized, Lola gained enough energy to become active in enjoying her favorite activities that the grueling nature of side effects had previously restricted.

Lola waits for her MRI results from Dr. Broniscer, her oncologist conducting the trial study at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

The Muñoz family stops at Niagara Falls on July 12, 2017, during a camping trip to give Lola the opportunity to visit the natural phenomenon. It is important for the family to make memories and allow Lola to see sights while she can. Lola's parents maximize her time by making sure Lola experiences what the world has to offer.

Lola enjoys the warmth of the campfire while on a camping trip in Youngstown, N.Y.

Lola prepares for ten rounds of radiation by getting a mask made on Aug. 10, 2017. Upon MRI results revealing tumor progression, Dr. Paul, Lola's radiologist, urged Lola to begin treatment as soon as possible as her condition could worsen in just days.

Lola celebrates her 13th birthday on Sept. 24, 2017. Lola's parents recall this time the year before thinking her 12th birthday would have been her last.

After a rushed MRI revealed rapid tumor growth, Lola's oncologist stated that there is nothing left that can be done for her condition. Agustin received orders to relocate to Chicago. The family wants to have the support of relatives nearby when Lola passes away. Since Lola's symptoms have worsened, hospice recommends that Lola moves to Chicago sooner rather than later to make the drive as comfortable as possible. Melissa and Lola decide to leave two weeks earlier than scheduled. Lola's belongings are packed up to be placed in storage.