Lake County Gazette

On Friday, April 25, the Lake Forest College Band, Orchestra, and Choir will present the world premiere of an original composition inspired by the story of 12-year-old Kamila, a resilient young girl from Lake in the Hills, Illinois who beat cancer.

The performance will take place at 7 p.m. at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest, under the direction of Associate Professor of Music Scott Edgar.

“It is an honor to be able to collaborate with Sing Me a Story and Make a Wish, Illinois to bring Kamila’s story to life,” Edgar said. “Working with composer Benjamin Martin and the rest of the team has been a once-in-a- lifetime opportunity to bring joy to a young girl who has overcome extreme adversity. Our Lake Forest College students have greatly enjoyed being part of this journey and we can’t wait to share this piece with our audience and Kamila and her family on April 25th. ”

“I am overjoyed to be able to share Kamila’s story through this piece,” said Emily Bailey ’26.

This event is a collaboration between Sing Me a Story, a nonprofit that transforms children’s stories into original music, and Make-A-Wish Illinois, which grants life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses.

Kamila, diagnosed with cancer at age 10, underwent extensive treatment, had her wish for a puppy granted, and became cancer-free a year later. She wrote a personal story reflecting on her journey, resilience, and the love of her family.

Inspired by her words, composer Benjamin Martin crafted an original orchestral and choral piece that brings Kamila’s story to life through music.

Music major Emily Bailey ’26 added: “As a student in both band and choir, I feel so lucky to have been able to spend so much time with this piece to be able to bring it to life. I am beyond excited to share this piece with Kamila and her family. ”