Pennies fight blood cancer

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By Karen Pegueros

In attempts to make a change, juniors Marcus Dugenia and Nabih Ghani give NHS member Tim Gutterman, 11, money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Photo by Karen Pegueros
In attempts to make a change, juniors Marcus Dugenia and Nabih Ghani give NHS member Tim Gutterman, 11, money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Photo by Karen Pegueros

Every three minutes someone is diagnosed with blood cancers like leukemia or lymphoma, and every nine minutes someone dies from them according to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

National Honor Society is hosting the annual Pennies for Patients campaign until February 22. Leukemia and Lymphoma patients in America who can’t afford treatment on their own are given most of the funds. The rest goes towards research funding.

“Since the age group is mainly teenagers, we want people to be aware [of it]. We sponsor them every year because they’re teens, so they’re making big decision like picking colleges. The more we can help, the more awareness we can bring. At least every year someone knows someone who has been affected,” Ms. McSorely, NHS advisor, said.

Students are asked to donate any extra change. Boxes are posted in every teacher’s room, and members of NHS are carrying boxes and manilla envelopes.

“I am going to ask not just my friends and family, but everyone I can to help raise money for this great cause,” Sean Marks, junior, said.

NHS will collect and count the money raised on Wednesday, Feb. 22. The room with the most money fundraised will receive a free donut party for one class period which the teacher will select.

“I want [my students] to think beyond themselves and consider contributing to a foundation that works towards helping those in need,” Ms. Moss, AP Language and Composition teacher teacher, said.

If NHS members raise $250 or more, they will receive a college recommendation letter from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.