Local student raises money for childhood cancer research

PALMDALE – Local seventh-grader Faith Rose has been hard at work raising awareness and gathering donations for childhood cancer. The 12-year-old launched a fundraiser in September for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and has managed to raise more than $2,500 so far.

“People go over to other countries to help other people. I can’t do that yet, but I can do this,” Faith said. “I am a healthy kid; I know I am lucky to be healthy. I want to help these kids that are fighting cancer.”

“She wants to help make a difference in the world, but instead of just talking about it, she’s doing something!” said Faith’s mother, Julia Rose.

Initially, Faith set her fundraiser goal at $250, which she quickly collected within the first week. In the following weeks, she continued to receive support from her teachers, fellow students and the community. A local business, Dazzler Cheer, donated a percentage of their proceeds to Faith’s fundraiser. Faith also created a page online that allowed the community to donate to the cause. Additionally, Faith dropped off donation cans at local businesses and classrooms for people to donate money.

During the process, Faith and her mom, Julia, shaved their heads to show solidarity with children fighting cancer.

Shaving her head gave her more strength to continue raising awareness, and Faith made classroom presentations at Anaverde Hills for students to learn about childhood cancer.

“The entire district is proud of Faith’s persistence to make a positive change in the lives of many children suffering from cancer,” said Westside Union School District Superintendent Regina Rossall. “She has become a role model not only for our students but for all the faculty and staff at Anaverde Hills.”

Faith has continued to surpass her fundraising goals with the support of her mother and father.

“We are very proud of her hard work and commitment to a great cause, and for showing that kids can make a difference in this world, especially when they put their passions into action,” stated Faith’s mother, Julia.

Only 4 percent of U.S. federal funding is solely dedicated to childhood cancer research, even though a child is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes, according to the St. Baldrick’s Foundation.

Faith will continue to collect donations for childhood cancer research until the end of this year. To assist Faith in this effort, visit her St. Baldrick’s Foundation fundraising page here.