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LH students volunteer at annual skin cancer awareness fund raiser

Posted on May 22, 2007

For the last three years, the Bob Cooke Skin Cancer Foundation has focused its fundraising activity on an annual run/walk/bike event in Milford, Connecticut. Hundreds of participants attended the events, raising tens of thousands of dollars for skin cancer research and education. From the beginning, Lauralton students have volunteered to help make the events successful. This year’s event, held in Milford on May 20, was no exception. 

According to Sherrill Cooke, founder and event organizer, "This initiative serves to increase both funding and public awareness of a cancer that affects so many. My goal has been to raise awareness on a national level. This foundation was founded in memory of my dad who fought a courageous twenty year battle with skin cancer, yet through it all maintained the incredible sense of humor that he was well known for. The trek is a tribute and honor to him and a way to help others that are faced with this illness."

When she initiated the annual trek, Sherrill Cooke, ’85 contacted Lauralton asking for volunteer help from the students. The response was…and continues to be…overwhelming. Lauralton students packaged gift bags and helped coordinate the event day by staffing water stations, the raffle, the “kid zone” and more. Many students took part in the event as bikers, walkers or runners.

Adalynn Geer, ’10 who worked at the suntan lotion booth said, “The walk was so much fun! I was proud to make my donation to this cause."

Polly Grzegorczyk, ’10 commented, “I was glad I finished the run. The beach run was beautiful and I’m glad I could contribute to such a great cause.”

Ms. Cooke participates in Lauralton’s health curriculum by speaking to the students about the importance of taking care of their young skin now, as well as the dangers and consequences of tanning beds.

In addition to holding numerous other awards for her work with skin cancer awareness, Sherrill Cooke was honored last month with Lauralton’s Claven XXVI Award, the school’s highest honor.



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