Dancers Perform in Fundraiser for Pediatric Cancer Awareness (April 15, 2012)
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| Photo: Front Row: Kyla Hawks, Lauren Schuefler, Paige Wade. Second Row: Jill Wiley, Tara Wade, Laken Kimball. Back Row: Tara Patterson, Natasha Gurley, Haley Horning, Alex Kimball, and Queen Barnes. |
– Several dancers from Michelle’s Encore Dance Studio participated in the Dancers for Pediatric Cancer fundraiser at Salina South on Sunday. The event raised over $1,800 for the Love, Chloe Foundation. Funds from this event will go towards purchasing Monkey Kits for children battling cancer or brain tumors.
“Our goal was to collect enough money for one monkey kit, which is $75,” says Michelle Crittenden, owner/instructor of Michelle’s Encore Dance Studio. “Thanks to our amazing families, and a big donation, we were able to donate $186, almost enough for three monkey kits! I’m just thankful for the positive response from our families.”
Monkey In My Chair is a program designed for children that are missing school because of cancer. The kits include a stuffed monkey with a backpack, a book, and other items that can be utilized by the child and their classmates. All kits are sent out, at no cost, to the families or hospitals.
“When a child is away from school for treatments, the monkey will sit in their chair at school, helping the class stay connected with the child that is away. The monkey then travels to the hospital to share the week’s worth of activities or notes with the child,” explains Crittenden.
The Love Chloe Foundation was founded in Salina, KS, by the friends and family of Chloe Watson Feyerherm. Chloe touched the lives of many during her seven years, especially during her year long battle with cancer. Through this foundation, Chloe's story can continue to touch the lives of others and we can continue Chloe's fight against brain tumors.
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