Lauren Athey, one of our fabulous Hope Campus Reps, came home for a weekend to spread hope at her old high school. Here is her touching story:

"Recently I traveled back to my hometown for an exciting Football Friday Night at East Lincoln High School in Denver, NC. However, this was a very special football game for the entire town. It was 'Pink Night' for breast cancer awareness and they welcomed Headbands of Hope with open arms. Being an East Lincoln Alumni, I wanted to spread awareness to my hometown community for childhood cancer and Headbands of Hope. Also with being a former cheerleader, I thought that getting the cheerleading squads to wear the pink glitter bands would be a great opportunity to spread hope.

 
The crowd was full of pink, supporting breast cancer and their fellow Mustangs. Before kick-off, I made my way to the press box with butterflies in my stomach because I knew I had to speak in front of the entire stadium. However, with many familiar faces, I made the announcement on who I was, what I was doing, and what Headbands of Hope is all about. Afterwards, our table became very popular with many people of the community interested in our mission.
 
The cheerleaders glowed as they danced in their pink glitter bands. Once halftime came around, I made my way back to make yet another announcement. However, this one was different because I spoke to the crowd about childhood cancer in hopes of raising much needed awareness.
 
Even though that night was dedicated to help raise money for breast cancer research, after my speech, people took time out of their evening to come to our table and allow us to better educate them on childhood cancer and what we do at Headbands of Hope. I was truly moved by the amount of support I received from the community.
 
Knowing that the simple words I spoke moved others and influenced them to join our fight against childhood cancer reminded me that Headbands of Hope is making a true difference. Cancer is terrible, no matter what kind.
 
In that football stadium on that Friday night, the focus was not about how many touchdowns were scored, but rather how the community can come together as a whole and help the fight against cancer.
 
A special thanks to the town of Denver, NC, Headbands of Hope appreciates all your support and because of your purchases, many beautiful girls will receive headbands. Let’s continue to spread hope together, one headband at a time!” 

- Love,

                                                   Lauren