Keith Valley's Relay for Life Raises $1,700

Keith Valley Middle School held its annual mini Relay for Life on Friday, where students walked their school track to support the American Cancer Society.

The middle schoolers raised over $1,700 for cancer research, walking the track during their study periods.

The school has seen students, parents and staff diagnosed with cancer. “The kids get it. They know that they’re walking for them and raising money for them, said Colleen Schoell, an organizer and one of the school’s special education assistants.

All of the schools in the Hatboro-Horsham district participate in their own versions of the Relay for Life.  At Keith Valley, students donate at least $2 and the staff donates, as well. This year, eighth grader Geordi Meck was able to raise the highest amount, at $280.

“I’ve known people who’ve had cancer and some have survived, and I’ve known people who were very close to me who’ve died,” said sixth-grader Colin Kennedy.

Health and Physical Education teacher Marie Schmucker is a breast cancer survivor. 

Schmucker is active in cancer research fundraising, including the Change for Change program she brought to the school, where students collected coins for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. On Friday several of the sixth grade teachers wore t-shirts supporting Marie’s Mission, her fundraising group that donates to the Komen organization.

“The more aware these kids are of cancer and the more that they participate in these events, the sooner we will find a cure,” Schmucker said.