For a survivor like Lisa Layton, cancer isn’t just a bad word.
"I just passed my three year survivor mark," she said. "If people hadn’t raised money for breast cancer research before me, I might not be here now."
Layton is the sponsor of the Nease Panthers Against Cancer, a club who’s purpose is to give high school students the chance to give back. Layton said that so many kids in one way or another have been touched by cancer and she wanted to help them find an outlet to join the fight against the disease.
"They can do a little something or a lot," she said. "The main goal is for the students to raise money and awareness and to give them a hand to help them fight."
And the students are all for it.
Junior Cody Paulsen said he has always liked the idea of working with causes that benefit cancer research. Senior Shelby Conner echoed Paulsen’s sentiments about the club.
"It always helps to have a club that connects with events in the community," she said. "Cancer is such a prevalent issue in society right now."
Layton said that the students will work on fundrasing activities throughout the year. During October, which is breast cancer awareness month, about 15 students volunteered and participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure event. The club, which has between 70 and 80 members, raised approximately $1,100 for the foundation. Layton said the club also participated in the Light the Night walk in September which benefited the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The event occurred nine days after the club first got together and Layton said they were able to raise $300 for the walk.
The students dedication to the cause runs deep.
Deepti Orekondy said the club is helpful in finding a variety of ways the students can help out.
"With the economy being so bad, its easier for us to help people out who can’t afford it," she said.
The club is currently working on fundraising projects for the holiday season. Layton said they are making baskets for Wolfson’s Children’s Hospital. Their goal is to make one basket per age group at the hospital.
"Wolfson’s has a list of items that the children would like," Layton said. "The students are going around town asking for donations."
Additionally, the students are making beaded bracelets in different colors which represent various charities. The students plan to sell the bracelets and donate the proceeds to the charity affiliated with the colored bead, for example red beads for the American Cancer Society.
Layton said the primary goal is to raise awareness. She said the club has plans to participate in the 26.2 with Donna marathon in February.
December 6th 2008 - 12:07AM