Sumter, SC (WLTX) - After helping to raise money for cancer research with her kindergarten class, one Sumter girl took it a step further.
In honor of her uncle, who has been diagnosed with Leukemia, she and her family began raising money on their own and are hoping to turn it into a non-profit.
"I say, Dear God, please don't let it happen to my last uncle," explains 7-year-old Mary Haitchcock of her constant prayer. It's what she believes has gotten her uncle Scott this far.
In January of 2011, the father of three was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. "It's been the hardest on him, not being able to the things he likes to do, not being able to work, not being able to get up and go outside and watch his kids play," explains Mary's mom, and his sister, Ada, "The leukemia has relapsed for a third time. He's in the hospital right now getting chemo, an aggressive chemo."
Since June of 2011, when they began Mary's Leukemia Fundraiser, the family has held a number of events, with the proceeds going to the the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Scott will have to have a bone marrow transplant once this round of chemo is finished. Community businesses like Lori's Decadent Desserts have held benefits for him. "Lori has been a rock. She supports Mary 100 percent," explains Ada.
Their goal is to make Mary's Leukemia Fundraiser an official non-profit, with all proceeds going to Pennies for Patients so that everyone diagnosed can be cured.
For more information about the family, or how you can help, check out their website.