a fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). They'll be collecting spare change in little boxes, with each class competing to bring in the most money. The winning class earns a party to celebrate. Guidance counselor Mary McKnight organized Ocracoke School's involvement with Pennies for Patients.

On Friday, February 10th, the students gathered in the gym to learn about the LLS fundraiser. Jenny Wayne, a senior campaign manager from LLS, used props and student volunteers to help explain what blood cancer is and how chemo helps cure it. Robbie Red Cell, Wesley White Cell and Pat Platelet (portrayed by students Hunter Collins, Hunter O'Neal and Kade Nagakane) valiantly tried to resist the attack of cancer cells, but needed the help of Capt. Chemo to triumph. (Who was that masked man? Middle schoolers reported a mysterious temporary disappearance of their science teacher, Howard Bennink. Coincidence? Perhaps.)

Ms. Wayne encouraged the students to get excited about helping others. Feeling good about doing good is a major part of the Pennies for Patients program; LLS hopes that kids will feel empowered by the opportunity to make a difference.

The money raised will pay for blood cancer research. The mission of LLS includes providing information and support services to patients, but their main goal is finding a cure. 

The Pennies for Patients fundraiser will run from 2/13 to 3/9. Don't be surprised if an Ocracoke kid asks you for your spare change, but if you're somehow overlooked, feel free to stop by the school office and make a donation.