Every year, over 80,000 Americans are affected by leukemia, a type of cancer that affects the body’s ability to fight infection. The sickness deeply affected many B-CC students a year and a half ago when math teacher Mr. Palafox sadly passed away of myeloid leukemia on September 30, 2023. He was a beloved teacher, coach of the co-ed volleyball team, and sponsor of Model UN. Inspired by Mr. Palafox, seniors Audrey Kong, Olivia Kong, and Katie Mao started The Red Pearls, an initiative dedicated to supporting patients and their families and raising money for cancer research and advocacy.
It is vital to raise money for this research because cancer is a difficult battle for patients and their families. Blood cancers travel through the bloodstream and bone marrow, making it very easy for the disease to spread throughout the entire body. Blood cancer research has led to advancements and treatments in other cancers, and the support and advocacy that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society provides is unmatched.
The Red Pearls initiative began on January 25, 2025, and lasted until March 15. “We reach out to community members, family, friends, and more,” said the Red Pearls. People can contribute through checks, online contributions, matching gifts, or donor-advised funds.
The leaders of The Red Pearls have big goals for the coming years: “We hope to eventually be able to eradicate all blood cancers and blood diseases, even if that doesn’t happen in the next year, five, or ten years.” Every dollar counts towards such an important cause, and even a small contribution can really help someone with leukemia or lymphoma.
It is crucial that the B-CC community stands together to face any issues that could come its way, always supporting one another and recognizing problems that we face today.
