Local kids save change to fund cancer research

Clinking can change can add up, with students at 463 schools across Colorado raising $390,438.06 to support blood cancer research and patient aid programs for local patients and their families.

Nearly 80 schools in the Pikes Peak region helped raise money as part of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Pennies for Patients program. Although some donations are still pending, Rampart High School in Academy School District 20 brought in the most donations, totaling $9,671.53.

Other top schools included Mountain Ridge Middle School, also in D-20; Lewis Palmer Middle School in Lewis-Palmer School District 38; Falcon Middle School and Meridian Ranch Elementary School, in Falcon School District 49; and James Irwin Charter Middle School and Otero Elementary School, in Colorado Springs School District 11.

“Leukemia affects more children than any other cancer, so LLS’s School & Youth Programs provide a meaningful way for kids to help kids. Every penny really does make a difference,” said Rebecca Russell, Executive Director of LLS’s Rocky Mountain Chapter.