Although no parent wants to think about the possibility of a child developing cancer, childhood cancer is a real tragedy some families face. That is why the American Cancer Society is partnering with Russellville Middle School for a change drive to raise money for childhood cancer research.

The fundraiser started on homecoming and will last through the remainder of October. Senior community development manager for Relay for Life Anna Duncan said the fundraiser is open for all Franklin County schools to be involved, but the students of Russellville latched onto the slogan “be bold, go gold” for childhood cancer awareness.

“Every cancer is hard, but being a child and having cancer is 10 times harder, so we just want those kids to feel supported,” Duncan said.

September is recognized as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, with Sept. 28 as the day everyone was encouraged to wear gold in support.

Duncan said she is impressed with how she has seen the students spread awareness and work to raise money for the cause.

“It just shows that these kids are going to be the community leaders of tomorrow,” Duncan said. “It just really makes me happy to see them embrace it and want to do something about childhood cancer.”

After the fundraiser is over, all students at Russellville Middle School will receive certificates from the American Cancer Society for all of their hard work. The class that raises the most money by the end of the month will also get a pizza party.

Duncan said this is the first year the American Cancer Society has done something for childhood cancer awareness in Franklin County, but she said it is something she plans to continue in the future.