Woman leads regional push for childhood cancer fundraising
AStamford resident is spearheading the American Cancer Society’s local campaign to raise both funds and awareness for childhood cancer research.
Kelsey McGettigan, who handles community development for the American Cancer Society, convinced her coworkers to band together throughout the region to highlight #GoldTogether, the organization’s pediatric cancer initiative.
The #GoldTogether campaign aims to provide a lifeline for children with pediatric cancer and their families, giving them a dedicated space to connect with others impacted by cancer and learn about resources.
“Gold Together creates a community within Relay for Life for children and families to share their stories and learn more about pediatric cancer resources, research, treatments and support that may positively impact their lives,” said McGettigan.
The local campaign for pediatric cancer awareness and research spans across Fairfield County and both Putnam and Westchester counties in New York.
McGettigan credits the push to unite the American Cancer Society throughout the region to a Fairfield University student. She met Gabriella St. Pierre, a childhood cancer survivor, at the virtual Fairfield University Relay for Life back in April.
“To hear someone so young speak so gracefully about the support she felt by attending a Relay for Life event and the courage she gained by talking to other kids going through what she was going through, really showed that the work done at the American Cancer Society is so special,” said McGettigan.
St. Pierre is only one of the local #GoldTogether ambassadors. Along with four other local leaders, St. Pierre committed to raising at least $1,000 for the American Cancer Society while also raising awareness about pediatric cancer throughout September.
The American Cancer Society has raised more than $1 million for pediatric cancer research through #GoldTogether to date.
The original #GoldTogether movement was born out of an 18-year-old cancer survivor’s vision. Cole Eicher, who had pediatric brain cancer, partnered in 2018 with the American Cancer Society to fundraise for pediatric cancer research across the country.