PHX Reporter

A new teen room has opened at Diamond Children’s Medical Center, offering a comfortable and visually appealing space for teens undergoing cancer treatment.

More than 100 teens receive cancer treatment at Diamond Children’s annually. Among them was Kelsey Luria, who passed away in 2015 after battling acute myeloid leukemia. Her parents, Maya and Michael Luria, donated $150,000 to create the teen room in her memory.

The room provides an escape from the medical environment, allowing teens to play video games, read, or watch movies on a large TV with customizable LED panels displaying various scenes. The space also features colored LED lighting that can be changed with the push of a button.

Kelsey Luria had founded the Bald Beauties Project® before her passing. This initiative empowers children and teens who have lost their hair due to chemotherapy by offering professional photoshoots and comfort kits while supporting research into acute myeloid leukemia. The Bald Beauties Project funded the creation of the teen room.

“Rarely does a day go by at Diamond Children’s without our feeling Kelsey’s impact,” said Courtney McClellan, nursing associate director for pediatric oncology at Diamond Children’s. “The new teen room is another example of her kindness and thoughtfulness for others.”

Banner Children’s – Diamond Children’s Medical Center offers comprehensive pediatric care including emergency services, heart disorders, traumatic brain injury treatment, autism support, cancer care among other specialties. It is connected to the University of Arizona Steele Children’s Research Center providing access to advanced science and research.