The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Teenager kicking for cancer research
High school senior has raised more than $2,000.
Harrison Larner enjoys being the kicker for the Wesleyan High School football team.
In fact, “I would love to play in college. I may have to walk-on though,” the 18-yearold said.
But it’s not his love of the sport that makes him stand out.
Larner has dedicated this football season to raising money to benefit childhood cancer research.
“To me it seems like an opportunity to help people. It’s just me trying to make kicks and help the community. Trying to help others,” he said.
The senior is participating as a Kick-It Champion, a program powered by Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation that helps children with cancer.
Larner began the season with a goal of raising $1,000 through donations and pledges for every kick he made. By Saturday morning, he had raised $2,110.
“The incredible donations from the Wesleyan community are amazing. Everybody has been very supportive,” he said of the Gwinnett County school in Peachtree Corners.
This mission is personal for Larner. His father, who was diagnosed with Stage IV/ GBM brain cancer in 2014, died from the disease.
“Cancer has personally affected our family,” he said. “Whatever I can do in a small way I want to do.”
The Kick-It Champion program was started by All-State Ohio football player Matt Colella, who battled cancer as a middle school student, according to the organization. Colella’s commitment to DOING GOOD Each Sunday, we write about a deserving individual, charity events such as fun-runs, volunteer projects and other community gatherings that benefit a good cause. To suggest an event or person for us to cover, contact us at ajc.doinggood@gmail. com.