Cancer has touched many families in some way, and unfortunately, its impact continues to grow–especially among children. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 15,000 children and adolescents in the U.S. are diagnosed with cancer each year, and while survival rates have improved dramatically over the past decades, cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease for children. Behind every statistic is a family, a child, and a story.

For me, this cause is deeply personal. I have lost two grandparents to cancer, and their strength, resilience, and the way this disease changed our family have stayed with me ever since. Those experiences are what inspired me to get involved and take action.

That’s why this year I decided to raise money for The Valerie Fund, an organization dedicated to providing comprehensive care and emotional support to children with cancer and their families. Their work ensures that families can focus on what matters most — helping their child heal — without the added stress of overwhelming medical and emotional challenges.

Over the first half of this school year, thanks to the generosity of friends and family, I’ve already raised $4,000 toward this cause, and I’m now working toward my final goal of $5,000. Any support that helps me reach that goal would mean more than I can express.

While raising these funds, I’ve also created a pen pal program between my school and a local hospital, helping to combat the isolation that so often comes with a cancer diagnosis. I’ve attached pictures of us launching the program at our school, and watching students connect with patients through letters and messages has been one of the most meaningful parts of this experience. It’s reinforced for me just how powerful community support can be.

One of the ways The Valerie Fund raises awareness and funds each year is through their annual 5K Run/Walk, an event I’ve always admired, and was able to communicate with them about last year. I’ve always enjoyed running and have participated in multiple 5K races over the years, which is why I love this tradition. In that same spirit, I encourage anyone who donates to take time to go outside and complete their own 5K — whether that’s running or walking, alone or with friends and family, as I hope to build a community of runners/walkers in support of cancer. It’s not about speed; it’s about solidarity.

Every dollar donated goes directly toward supporting children battling cancer and the families who walk beside them. Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a real difference.

Thank you for helping me continue this journey and for standing with families who need hope, strength, and community now more than ever.