ROYAL CITY - Michelle Wallace, who became well-known in Royal City over the last six years, lost her 8 1/2 year battle with cancer Sunday. She was 29.

As one can imagine, Michelle's parents were struggling Sunday evening and were able to give only few details of their daughter's passing. They said there will be a celebration of life within 2-3 weeks in Federal Way, where Michelle grew up.

Michelle died at 9 a.m. on Sept. 29 at the University of Washington Medical Center. She had been undergoing chemotherapy treatments for Acute Miliginous Leukemia Category M5. It turned out to be the last in a long series of treatment sessions at the same facility.

Michelle was already ill when she moved to Royal City six years ago to live with her parents. But she was undaunted.

She served as an emergency medical technician alongside her father, Wes Wallace, with Grant County Fire District No. 10-11 in Royal City. She particularly enjoyed participating in the SummerFest parades.

Michelle's coworkers at the fire district were responsible for most of the fundraising that occurred in the last six years to help her with medical and personal expenses. They thought of her as their sister.

Michelle knew she was in a serious fight, but she never thought to give up. She faced each trip to the hospital with a smile and a vow to fight on.

"This battle was many battles built into it," Wes said. "She was the leader of the war. She was going to go out and kick this in the butt."

And she did, for eight and a half years.