Ayden’s Bracelets

When 14-year-old high school student Ayden Kavanagh considered what he wanted to do for his school’s Pay It Forward Campaign, he knew right away that he wanted to help the cancer community.

Ayden was just eight years old when his mother, Heather, was first diagnosed with cancer, and he was 11 years old when it recurred. Seeing his mother undergo treatments for so many years left a strong impression on him, and motivated Ayden to give back to the team who cared for her. “I felt worried and scared, but after her chemotherapy was over, I felt relieved. I want everyone else to feel that way all the time – never having to worry about whether or not their loved one will make it through their cancer journey. I chose to give back to the Abramson Cancer Center because their research helped save my mom’s life and this donation can help save other lives,” says Ayden.

To raise money, Ayden sold St. Patrick’s Day bracelets, which he called “Ayden’s Bracelets,” and promoted his efforts at the school and throughout his community. Not only did he raise $400, but the experience also helped Ayden recognize the joy he felt in creating awareness and doing positive work like this.

The Kavanagh family is very proud of Ayden’s efforts, and the Abramson Cancer Center is grateful for young philanthropists, like Ayden, who continue to make an impact on cancer research and care.