Franciscan Health Crown Point: Andrean Students Raise Money to Fight Breast Cancer

Franciscan-Health-Crown-Point-Andrean-Students-Raise-Money-to-Fight-Breast-CancerJuniors at Merrillville’s Andrean High School recently conducted a fundraiser to raise money for the battle against breast cancer. Some 300 shirts were sold to benefit patient treatment and services at Franciscan Health Crown Point’s Breast Care Center. Accepting the check on behalf of the hospital were Laura Mannion from the Franciscan Health Foundation and Joan Filipowski cancer center patient nurse navigator. “We will use the money for support groups and to help treat patients,” said Filipowski, adding, “It is so heartwarming to see these young people wanting to help others. “

“We sold shirts that Kaylie (Kemp, classmate) designed,” said student Madelyn Howard. Added student Austin Martinez, “We sold them at lunch. We sold them to family and friends. We even sold them as Christmas presents.” Student Rachael Hinkel had a special motivation.

“I have an aunt fighting breast cancer right now and her fight inspired me to sell as many shirts as I could,” she said. “We are proud of our students. They are very conscientious of helping others in the community,” said Joe O’Neill, class moderator, adding, “The students perform multiple service projects for the community each year.” Pictured from left are: Mannion, Howard; Kemp; Hinkel, Martinez, Filipowski, and O’Neill.