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For Veronica Muth, 26, involvement with Beckstrand Cancer Foundation exposed her to the reach of cancer and solidified her confidence in the nonprofit’s mission.“I know that the task of enhancing quality of life for these patients, who are facing devastating challenges, is never finished,” says Muth, who co-founded the Four Pearls auxiliary for young professionals along with Lauren Collins and Stephanie Muth. Four Pearls provides care packages to patients and is planning an educational community event focused on cancer resources, preventative action and early detection. Inspired by Four Pearls, Alexandra Spitzer, 16, created Junior Pearls to reach out to teens who want to make a difference in the lives of kids with cancer. “Each time we visit the hospital, deliver a care package or produce a fundraiser event, I’m touched by the huge difference we make,” Alexandra says. “It’s exciting to see that we can accomplish something so worthwhile that is also fun.” Junior Pearls attracts members from high schools countywide and has a thriving online community supporting its cause – a tool that will soon be put to use when the group begins its school backpack program, providing classroom and study supplies to students undergoing treatment. Junior Pearls members also serve as mentors for the youngest auxiliary, Mini Pearls. Initiated by Jillian Ray, 7, Mini Pearls participants help raise awareness for the littlest of cancer patients. Ray says that even if you are small, you can still make a big difference. Mini Pearls members make and distribute quilted blankets that say “BELIEVE” on them, to provide hope to children in the hospital. They also wear Mini Pearls shirts to school every Monday to encourage other kids to join. “Kids should help other kids with cancer, if they can,” Jillian says. “You can write a letter to them, or give them a care package. Then when they get a shot, or they are in the hospital, they are not too sad because they know we care.” Beckstrand Cancer Foundation 949.955.0099 beckstrand.org • fourpearls.org • juniorpearls.org • minipearls.org |
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