Batavia teen succumbs to cancer

A Batavia prom queen who raised thousands of dollars for cancer research and was often called upon to speak at Relay for Life events has died of leukemia.

Ashley R. Souba, 19, who was diagnosed with cancer at age 12, died Thursday after a "long, courageous battle," her family said. An honors student at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove, she had been studying to become a social worker for children with cancer.

After her diagnosis on May 1, 2002, Souba became a steadfast fundraiser for cancer research by organizing and participating in events such as the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. She often spoke publicly about her illness at these events, including Illinois State University's relay this spring. Souba also put on car washes and sold wristbands for the cause.

"When I go to my appointments I see so many kids fighting cancer," Souba told the Daily Herald in 2004. "I see them losing their hair. I see parents losing their loved ones. I know I have to do something."

Although her health kept her out of school at times, Souba excelled academically, earning high honors and membership into the National Honor Society. Her classmates at Batavia High School elected Souba homecoming queen in 2007, and later prom queen.

Souba's leukemia went in and out of remission throughout high school. Two weeks before graduating high school in 2008, she suffered a relapse and stroke, but remained determined to attend commencement, which she did.

Souba, remembered for her quirky personality and love of music, is survived by her mother and father, Renee Treest Souba and Doug Souba, two brothers and her grandparents, among others.

Visitation is scheduled for 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at Ginger Creek Church, 2850 Ginger Woods Parkway, Aurora. Services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday.