Mrs. Jenna Hixson said her battle with cancer last fall left an impact on her that was life-changing. She, along with her former student junior Liz King, decided to work together to bring awareness to the impact of cancer.

“Liz always has great ideas for supporting this worthy cause,” said Mrs. Hixson, who is a cancer survivor. “My life will never be the same because of cancer, and I want to make sure that I didn’t get it in vain.”

Mrs. Hixson praised King for her efforts. She said the two have been planning to have a day dedicated to awareness of different types of cancers to represent the impact that cancer has on many people. On May 11, their plans to honor all who have been impacted by cancer became a reality.

“Last year I, along with a few other students, had the idea to do a Pink Out,” King said.  “We had an overwhelming amount of participation for students to wear pink in support of breast cancer. Mrs. Hixson got us together and had us discuss further ideas. This year, it was mainly me who came up with the idea, I did have helpers in other lunches to pass out bracelets as well as the art council to decorate posters to raise awareness of these cancers.”

Bracelets were available to be sold to students to allow them to participate on the day. They had several colors to represent several cancers: pink for breast cancer; yellow for bone cancer; black for skin cancer; and many more. The money that was made from the selling of these bracelets was given to the American Cancer Society to help with crucial research against cancer.

“I’m sure everyone in the school also felt that this day is needed as it has affected everyone in some way or another,” said King. “I absolutely love being a part of this. It gives me a sense of responsibility within the district to create these events. It’s my favorite to tell those in our community about what our school does.”

Overall, 118 bracelets were sold to students and staff members. Over 50 students wore various colors to honor their loved ones who have had to fight through battles with cancer. Many types of cancers were represented by students because too many have felt the impact cancer has on their lives, King said.

“I think more than anything, people impacted by cancer need to be reminded they are not alone,” Mrs. Hixson said. “Cancer is not something you can fight alone. You need support. And if there is one thing I know about being a Scottie, is that when you need it most, you are never alone here.”

King and Mrs. Hixson said they were very satisfied with the turn out this event had on Friday.

“We love to be involved in more events like this because they combine our school with real life, like Grim Reaper Day and our sports programs as a whole,” Mrs. Hixson said.