Each year LLS SOY selects a special hero who embraces the mission of LLS and is a symbol of strength, bravery, and inspiration. This year's Honored Hero for the 2020 Students of the Year Campaign is Emelina Sergentakis.

Emma is a spunky 4 year old who likes to paint, dance and play with my big sister. She was diagnosed with Pre B Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on December 7, 2017. She has undergone intense, high dose chemotherapy to combat this disease. Emma is am a warrior! It is hard to believe that she has been through so much at such a young age. 

Dear Future Donors,

I, Shreya Karra, have been nominated as a candidate for the 2020 Student of the Year fundraising campaign by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS).  My mission coming into this campaign is to spread awareness about the incredible advancements that LLS has made in the fight against cancer and to show you how YOU could make a difference in the lives of over 1.2 million people who are currently living with or in remission from leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma. I am extremely proud to lead my campaign team, Team uKnighted, and work towards raising our goal of $25,000 during the 7 week campaign from January 16th to March 7th.

However, I cannot do this huge task without your support. I am sincerely asking you today, on behalf of all the patients and families who have experienced the effects of cancer, for your support by making a generous donation to LLS via my fundraising website: https://events.lls.org/nj/trentonsoy20/skarra. Remember, all donations are fully tax deductible. LLS’s Tax ID number is 13-5644916. Also, ask your company if they have a matching gift program in order to increase your impact. I am eagerly waiting for your reply with a picture of your donation and a “Shreya, I just donated to Team uKnighted!” 

LLS is uniquely able to report on the many advances and accomplishments that have occurred since its founding in 1949. From cutting-edge research and precision medicine innovations to legislative victories that improve access to therapies for cancer patients, LLS plays a leading – and often pioneering – role in the fight against blood cancers. Since 2000,approximately 40 percent of all U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved cancer drugs were for blood cancer, and some are now used to treat other forms of cancer and non- malignant diseases. A “win” for blood cancers, therefore, is a win for the cancer community overall.

I have been given this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join the battle and help those living with blood cancers. Now, you can too! Large or small, your contribution to this worthy effort will be greatly appreciated. Like LLS, Team uKnighted is dedicated to finding a CURE! Thank you very much for your generosity and for joining us in making an impact! Donations can be made starting on Jan 16 th, 2020 via credit card at https://events.lls.org/nj/trentonsoy20/skarra or by mailing a check to LLS; 14 Commerce Dr., Ste. 301: Cranford, NJ 07016. Please make your check payable to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society or LLS, and include my name in the memo line.

Sincerely,

Shreya Karra

2020 Student of the Year Candidate