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Students Raise Over $15,000 in Pediatric Cancer Fundraiser

Students Raise Over $15,000 in Pediatric Cancer Fundraiser

The 7th annual Chain Reaction fundraiser finally took place on October 26, 2023, after being rescheduled due to bad weather in September. This year's event, organized by students at the Academy of the Holy Names, proved to be a resounding success, raising more than $15,000 for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation and the Cailin Strong Foundation.

Initially inspired by the battle of their fellow student Cailin Cannella against Osteosarcoma, AHN students Laura Caroline Jung ’22 and Chloe Mintz ’22 initiated the fundraiser in 2017. The objective was not only to support Cailin but also to increase awareness and raise money for pediatric cancer research. Since then, the event has grown substantially and become an integral part of the school's fundraising initiatives in memory of Cailin.

Leading the charge this year were seniors Ashlin C.—Cailin’s sister—and Emma K., who spearheaded the event, with support from committee members. Juniors Emma H. and Kara M. are set to continue the legacy of Chain Reaction next year, aspiring to ensure its continuation long after current students graduate. Their broader ambition is to establish a platform and structure for other schools to organize similar fundraising endeavors for pediatric cancer.

Although typically a field day affair, this year's event was a condensed version conducted at the end of the school day, for students from Pre-K to 8th grade. The afternoon comprised various activities, notably 'Cut and Color for the Cure,' where participants raised funds by shaving their heads or adding color or tinsel to their hair.

A perennial favorite, the 'Pie-in-the-Face' fundraiser delighted participants once again. In the weeks leading up to Chain Reaction, students purchased raffle tickets for a chance to pie one of their teachers, adding a fun and engaging element to the fundraising efforts.

This year, the event drew attention from a wider audience as ABC Action News covered the occasion, amplifying the success of AHN students' initiatives in the Tampa Bay area.

For more insights into the event, you can view the coverage by ABC Action News here. The collaborative efforts and enthusiasm of AHN students continue to make a profound impact in the fight against pediatric cancer, symbolizing the spirit and commitment of the Academy community.