September is special. Fall begins, football is back and we get the opportunity to shine a light on the amazing children and families facing pediatric cancer. The Vs. Cancer team is excited to kick off Childhood Cancer Awareness Month with the support of our first division one football partner Bucknell University at their September 1 home football game.

Right now, there are 28,000 kids living with a brain tumor in the United States. And today, thirteen more will be diagnosed. When hearing statistics like these, the Bucknell football team jumped at the chance to support national pediatric brain tumor research and Geisinger Janet Weis Children’s Hospital’s child-life programs.

On August 13, members of the football staff and team paid a visit to Janet Weis to meet some of the children that are being supported by their fundraising efforts and to see the change they are making firsthand. Athletes often go into these visits not knowing what to expect, but in all cases, the experience is life changing.

“It was an unbelievable experience, and I’m grateful that our team had an opportunity to spend time with the kids. It’s a great feeling to know that simply talking and playing a game can create a smile on their face. Overall, it was an eye-opening experience that I will never forget.” – Alex Pechin, Senior Captain

Video Credit: Bucknell University Athletic Dept.

“The trip to the hospital really opened my eyes to how blessed and fortunate we are. There are kids out there who are fighting for their lives and would give anything to be in our position. I think it’s extremely important to spend time with these kids who look up to us and show them that they really put a true smile on our faces with their joy to see us. I had a great, eye-opening experience, and I can’t wait to go again.” – Brandon Sanders, Freshman

Leading up to their season opener, the Bucknell University football team has a goal of raising $20,000 through Vs. Cancer for the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation and Janet Weis Children’s Hospital. You can support their fundraising efforts here.

On the way to meeting their fundraising goal, members of the team have been shaving their heads in support of kids battling cancer.

Video Credit: Bucknell University Athletic Dept.

As a signature fundraising campaign of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Vs. Cancer provides any team, any athlete, any community with the opportunity to help kids with cancer. We believe the experience has a positive effect on the fundraiser as well, giving athletes the chance to use their platform for good and to see the difference they are making on and off the field.

Be part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by partnering with Vs. Cancer this year. Email info@vs-cancer.org or call 980-925-7557 for more information on how to get involved.

All photos and videography provided by the Bucknell University Athletic Department.