Why I am Running for SOY

The word cancer is scary, intimidating, and one that no person ever wants to hear. In 2017 my family’s whole world was rocked when we found out that, yet another family member was diagnosed with cancer. My rock, my role model, my mother. I felt nothing but helpless knowing I couldn’t do anything about my mom's leukemia. However, the word cancer would not hold me back from trying. When I searched the web for information, drug therapies, and clinical trials, I continued to come across the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s website. For this reason, and for all the people fighting against blood cancers, I have taken the pledge to make someday today!

I am honored to have been accepted as a candidate in the 2018 Students of the Year program, a seven-week initiative in which select students from around the country participate in a fundraising competition to benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I am raising critical dollars in honor of my mother, who is fighting leukemia. Each dollar is a vote for me and vote to cure cancer. The candidate team who raises the most money at the end of the seven weeks is named Student of the Year. I have until April 6th to reach my goal of $3,000. My mission is to not only raise the most money but also to bring attention to blood cancers like leukemia, which is the most common form of cancer in children and teens.

Since the early 1960s, five-year survival rates for many blood cancer patients have doubled, tripled or even quadrupled. And many LLS supported therapies not only help blood cancer patients but are helping patients with other cancers and serious diseases. In fact, drugs first approved for blood cancers are now approved to treat patients with stomach cancers, skin cancers, and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

We really are changing the face of blood cancer!

All donations are greatly appreciated and are tax deductible. They'll not only support LLS-funded research but will help provide critical information and support for patients, and support advocacy for laws to ensure patients can access the care and treatments they need. I'd love for you to join this ambitious campaign! 

Please visit our website often and bring friends who would also like to donate!

On behalf of my family and blood cancer patients everywhere I thank you for your support!

For more information about LLS, please visit www.lls.org/gateway