This year, I’m proud to be a part of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Student Visionaries of the Year Campaign, working to raise as much as possible for LLS’s mission, which is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. The 7-week campaign runs from February 9 through March 31.

As a global leader in the fight against blood cancer, LLS:

• Funds cutting-edge research leading to breakthroughs in immunotherapy, genomics and personalized medicine that are improving and saving the lives of patients
• Provides free education and support for blood cancer patients and families, including personalized, one-on-one support, assistance with identifying and enrolling in clinical trials, and more.
• Mobilizes thousands of advocates to drive policy changes that accelerate the development of new cancer treatments and break down barriers to care.

The work LLS has done in the past, has also helped further the cures for other cancers as well.

I am motivated to raise funds in honor of my great-grandfather, who was vibrant and healthy until he was diagnosed with Leukemia and died only 6 weeks later. In addition, my first dog, Gracie, was diagnosed with Lymphoma at 9 years old and despite weekly chemotherapy treatments, she only lived for 8 more months. Since humans and dogs are 85% genetically identical, cancers can affect both in similar ways. Finally, My Aunt Madeline was such a vital part of my life until she died abruptly of lung cancer. These tragic losses have shown me the devastating consequences of cancer and the urgency that we need to help further the research needed to cure this disease.

My team and I have set a goal to raise $25,000, and we kindly ask for your support. All donations are greatly appreciated, and no amount is too small. In addition, all donations are tax-deductible. Please spread the word and ask your family and friends to donate by visiting my website too!

Thank you for your support, as my efforts will help ensure this generation is the last to see cancer.

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