Sunnyslope Varsity Softball hosted their annual week-long Brain Cancer fundraiser with a ceremony before the April 16 varsity game according to Head Coach Mike Fenton.
This was accomplished through the selling of fundraiser keepsakes at lunch and raffle tickets at the game.
The grand total of $850 will directly benefit those battling cancer.
“I think we were right where we tried to be. We wanted to raise $400-$500 for each foundation and we made $425 for each,” said Fenton.
The importance runs deep within the team as players and family members have been impacted by pediatric cancer.
“Yes, we have players, family members, and classmates who have been affected by pediatric cancer. Also, my youngest sister died of brain cancer last September so this year we raised money for both foundations,” said Fenton.
Sunnyslope is fortunate to have had multiple inspirational Vikings who’ve bravely shared their story with us.
Their stories of resilience and strength have taught us valuable lessons about perseverance and hope.
“Our friend Molly Lawrence has also battled cancer. Her bravery, character, and heart is inspiring to the entire Sunnyslope community,” Piña said.
Pina is referring to Junior Molly Lawrence — who has taken time to do public speaking engagements on the topic of cancer, and has fought her own fight all while being an active member of the Sunnyslope community.
You can read more about Molly at SHSVikingViews.com.
To make the $850, the team had a table at lunch.
“We sold silicon bracelets, hand made ribbons, and cookies donated from Victor’s Place. Also, during the softball game, we had a basket raffle. Baskets were donated from families and businesses in the Sunnyslope community,” Fenton said.
Small but of high value, these souvenirs have been a hit for more than 5 years.
“This is our 7th year of fundraising to raise money for cancer research. We have raised for pediatric cancer research each year and incorporated brain cancer research this year also,” said Fenton.
Not only has the past 7 years of fundraising produced an abundant amount of profit, but the memories are of equal value.
The teammates utilized this fundraiser as an opportunity to enhance the lives of others as well as their own.
“In the past we usually do some fun team bonding and play some games as a team and eat breakfast then make ribbons to sell for the game,” Junior Zoe Staten said.
While the mementos have remained consistent, the fundraiser’s passion and progression has only increased since the first campaign of 2018.
“The fundraiser this year was successful in so many ways! And it rivals all previous ones in how many students on campus were involved in its scope, success, and impact,” Senior Sophia Piña said.
This achievement was made possible by the generous contributions of Sunnyslopes students and parents.
Their support ensured that the goal was easily met without fret.
Softball continues to support members of our community just like Lawrence, and will do so again next year.
