By Marin McMillan
After losing two loved ones to cancer, Junior Avery Stephens has become very passionate in involving herself in ways to increase research for finding the cure to cancer. One program in particular she has become a part of is the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Since the program focuses heavily on finding a cure for all types of cancer, Stephens saw it as a perfect opportunity to join in the fight against cancer.
Beginning from being nominated by a family friend to be a team leader and run for student of the year for 2021, Stephens was honored and excited to start her journey.
“There’s about 10 people running in San Antonio alone, but it’s a nationwide competition,” Stephens said. “We are competing to see what student can raise the most money in support of the program.”
Every year, each area is assigned a special kid to raise the money for.
“This year’s LLH honored hero is a 6 year old boy from New Braunfels named Jaden Leihsing who is being treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia,” Stephens said. “My goal for this year is $50,000.”
Another big part of the competition is a research grant that will be in the name of who Stephens is doing this for; her aunt and grandma who passed from cancer at young ages.
“I’m really going to strive to reach my goal so I can help others and honor the memory of my family,” Stephens said. ‘I’m inspired to put in a lot of hardwork and hopefully make a difference.”
Each competitor with the help of their team of around 10 people, will hold fundraising events as well as get sponsors from different businesses and people to reach the goal.
“The first event I’m holding is a virtual/in person 5K,” Stephens said. “It’s my kick off for the start of fundraising which begins in January and runs for a 7-8 week period until the month of February.”
There will also be a big event at the end to announce the winner and to see who will go on to compete nationally.
“I’m really hoping to win locally and go on to compete nationally,” Stehpans said. “It would be such a big accomplishment and could benefit so many people.”
Teens that are a part of this program are also learning lots of life skills that can greatly benefit them in the future.
“Being a part of this is also a big learning experience for me,” Stephens said. “From this I’m learning marketing, entrepreneurship, project management, presentation skills, financial literacy, communications and networking skills.
With her main motivators being her Aunt and Grandma who passed away due to cancer, Stephens is confident that she can achieve her mission.
“I’m really looking forward to helping be part of the change,” Stephens said. “I’m super confident that it’s going to be a very successful few months!”