A new fund raising effort, known as Seahawk Strong, is running from Jan. 3 through Feb. 10.
The Student Government Association and leadership class started the movement which strives to raise money for cancer institutions that will put the funds towards cancer research, patients, and their families.
Bracelets are sold sold in seven different colors each one representing a different type of cancer. The first bracelet, sold in kelly green, signified lymphoma.
The bracelets were sold in honor of junior Alli Carone, who was diagnosed with lymphoma at the age of 10. As a part of her treatment, Carone underwent 18 months of chemotherapy.
Carone credits her family for helping her remain strong.
“My family was a major support system for me,” said Carone. “They definitely helped me remain strong during my treatments and we value each other so much more.”
Having endured cancer, Carone says she has a new lease on life and cherishes every day.
“Without a doubt I value my health much more,” said Carone. “I look at each day as a gift and want to live my life to the fullest each and every day.”
The SGA commemorated leukemia survivor sophomore Paul Fertitta, who battled the disease when he was in third grade, with an orange bracelet.
Like Carone, Fertitta praises the fund raiser and thinks it is a superb idea.
“It gives money to reputable organizations and increases awareness,” said Fertitta. “Having battled a form of cancer myself, I know it will make a huge difference.”
SGA took on the project because they believe that fighting cancer is a worthy cause.
“Cancer impacts so many people at South Lakes,” said leadership teacher Michael Astudillo. “What’s special about South Lakes is that we are a true family and we want to give back and support each other.”
Juniors and leadership students Lisi Mueller, Emma Waugh, and Alex Dilldine coordinated the fund raiser as the leadership class’s second quarter community service project.
“We know that so many students and faculty members have been affected by cancer that we just thought it was a good idea to give back as Seahawks,” said Mueller.
Leadership will continue to sell bracelets for $1 during lunches, after school, and prior to home basketball games.