Grayslake To Go Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month--Go Gold Campaign

Grayslake Mayor Rhett Taylor has officially proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month thanks to the efforts of the 12 Oaks Foundation Teen Advisory Board President, and Grayslake Central High School student, Jordan Lenz.

For the first time ever, Grayslake Central High School will also be "Going Gold" for the month of September in honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. “Students in Public Service Practicum will be decorating the hallways of their school, selling a student designed shirt, and hosting two fundraising events,” according to Lenz. He adds, “The school's fall sporting teams will also be wearing gold attire throughout the month to show support! They hope this change will help increase awareness among the student body, especially because this disease affects so many of those within their age group.”

“Families, caregivers, charities and research groups across the United States observe September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. In the U.S., 15,780 children under the age of 21 are diagnosed with cancer every year; approximately 1/4 of them will not survive the disease. A diagnosis turns the lives of the entire family upside down. The objective of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is to put a spotlight on the types of cancer that largely affect children, survivorship issues…” http://www.acco.org/childhood-cancer-awareness-month/

Grayslake residents Julie and Steve Hupp’s are among many families impacted by pediatric cancer. When their son Matthew Hupp died from Burkitt’s lymphoma in August 2009, it devastated their family and impacted the Grayslake community.

During Matt’s illness, the Hupp’s saw firsthand the impact that cancer treatment has on a family, both financially and socially. Beyond medical bills, treatment added unforeseen costs such as gas, parking, restaurant meals and more. Even with a supportive community that helped defray some expenses and care for their other children, the Hupp’s were forced to pull Matt’s siblings out of much-loved activities.

Determined to create something positive from their profound loss and grief, Julie and Steve decided to build a financial resource for children in families dealing with cancer. They believed that helping to keep kids involved in their favorite activities best reflected Matt’s values. Since no other charitable organizations served this distinctive niche, 12 Oaks Foundation was launched in 2010 in his honor.

In six short years, 12 Oaks Foundation has:

* Provided $185,000 in grants in Illinois and Wisconsin

* Supported more than 350 children and their families

* In 2017, over 175 children and their families will receive $65,000

You can support their efforts this month by participating in Matt’s Mile 5K and 10K Race/Walk on Saturday, September 23 at 5 p.m. Grayslake. The race begins and ends at 960 Harris Road and registration fees include dinner and festivities after the race. Come for the run, stay for the fun!

Run for a cause, stay for the party! These days everyone knows of a family impacted by a cancer diagnosis. Participating in this race/party will benefit these families! 12 Oaks Foundation provides grants to families to keep their children in their activities while a family member battles cancer. No longer do families have to decide between paying the bills or keeping their children active and healthy. 12 Oaks provides up to $500 per child and $2,000 per family to keep these children busy and engaged in their passion and community. This year 12 Oaks will provide over $65,000 in grants to families throughout Illinois and Wisconsin.

New this year, sign up as a team of five or more and win prizes for fastest team, largest team or team that raises the most money!

There is a mile run for kids under 13 years old, and a 5K and 10K. Most of the race is trail runs through the prairie and Oak Openings. Entry fees include dinner, DJ and there is a beer truck! http://www.active.com/grayslake-il/running/distance-running-races/matt-s-mile-5k-and-10k-2017

Registration information at www.12oaksfoundation.org

In Their Own Words

Oliver’s Story

Oliver’s mother has Stage IV breast cancer. She is now disabled and cannot work.

“We would never be able to pay for Oliver's piano lessons if it were not for 12 Oaks. Because of his continuing lessons, Oliver has been able to excel at the piano, performing with his school's jazz band, and taking home first place medals at Solo Ensemble contests.

Most importantly, in part because of his musical skills, he was chosen as a Jack Kent Cooke Young Scholar. He was one of only 45 children accepted out of thousands who applied. This organization will help to cover any school and education-related expenses throughout high school. As well, he may be eligible for college tuition as well.

12 Oaks has not only made it possible for my son to continue his piano lessons as we proceed through this difficult cancer journey, they have contributed to my son's future success. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, and cannot possibly put into words how much this means to us.”

Olivia’s Story

Dear 12 Oaks Foundation,

When I was 14 years old I was diagnosed with Lymphoma, right before the start of my studio competition season. I was shocked that I had cancer and super upset at knowing I was going to miss the competition season with my dance studio. I had been working hard all year in preparation for the competitions. You see, I have been dancing since I was a little girl and always found dance to be a great mix of reducing stress from school and being around a group of nice dancers.

The financial support from the 12 Oaks Foundation has allowed me to continue taking my techniques classes in preparation for my competitions.

Thank you so much for your help, and I know my mom was super happy about the help with my dance costs too, due to the medical bills. I am able to continue dancing because of you!

~Olivia

For further information on 12 Oaks Foundation, how to apply for a grant or make a donation visit www.12oaksfoundation.org or call 847-231-0992.

12 Oaks Foundation provides grants to help defray the cost of sports and extracurricular activities for children in families suffering temporary financial hardship related to ongoing cancer treatment.

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