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Leading the Way Against Cancer
October 1, 2020
Cancer is a prominent issue, and is certainly not meant for trivialization. In relation with this idea, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is an organization dedicated to curing cancer-related diseases, spreading awareness, and overall improving life. Ayana Ahuja and Saavni Paladugu are sophomores at The Madeira School, and have proved to be one of LLS’s support beams.
For Ayana and Saanvi, their roles lie far beyond the leadership title. Both have faced family death due to cancer-related illnesses, and felt a pull towards cancer prevention. Since their passing, they were interested in improving lives, and viewed LLS as a perfect opportunity.
With their community service passion, both felt obligated to further contribute by creating their own philanthropic team. The girls believe it’s important to play your part. Since then, they’ve created ‘Team Tyler,’ in honor of Tyler Thomas, diagnosed with ALL-Leukemia at 2 years old. After treatments, he is now a healthy 12-year-old. In his regards, the girls are hosting a fundraiser beginning January 23rd, aiming to raise $100,000+.
However, things aren’t consistently smooth-sailing for the girls. Starting January, Team Tyler is under a 7-week crunch, requiring organization whilst balancing schoolwork. COVID-19 is another crutch for donations. Saavni adds, “Everyone has different financial situations, and we don’t want to cause pressure during this time.” As for maintaining an audience, LLS’s advertising makes interest fairly easy, but maintaining it proves more difficult.
Overall, Ayana and Saanvi’s goal is to raise donations for patients struggling with blood-related cancer. Beyond that, Ayana says, “We want to inspire teens to contribute towards their community. Hopefully, our campaign displays the importance of fighting cancer, and most importantly, involvement.”
LINKS:
Students of the Year Program: https://
LLS: https://www.lls.org
In the meantime, if interested, you can submit your intent to donate on the following form:
https://www.llsform.org/
Please remember to the name ‘Ayana Ahuja’ in the field that asks for “In Support of (please type name of student):”