Competition brings out the worst in some, but in other cases, it can bring out a more generous side.  October is approaching, and with it, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which brings a few girls together to use their competitive side to fight for a cure. Seniors Taylor Banholzer, Dani Licklider, and Megan McCaul are organizing several fundraising events during the fall to raise awareness and contribute to a cure.

     “[The fundraiser is called] Competing for the Cure,” Banholzer said. “We are hoping that all fall sports will participate.”

     The idea for the fundraiser didn’t come out of nowhere. The students have their own inspirations, which ultimately lead to this great cause.

     “It was Megan McCaul’s idea that she got from the volleyball’s annual Dig Pink game. Her grandma had breast cancer and so many people are affected by breast cancer. Also Dani’s aunt had breast cancer,” Banholzer said.

Motivation plays a big part when organizing these events. Banholzer, Licklider, and McCaul have stories and histories that provide them with what they need to persevere in the fight for the cure.

“Basically, cancer affects everyone in some way or another. My aunt just finished chemo and I sat with her on the chemo floor with all the cancer patients…you really don’t realize how many people really are suffering until you’re in that situation, and I think by getting involved, we’re doing our part to find a cure,” Licklider said.

Though the girls had their personal inspirations for making a difference, it was also the general desire to help out that got the ball rolling on the organization of this project.

“We wanted to raise money for a cause, and we felt that since everyone working on the project are girls, this was a perfect fit,” Banholzer said.

Along with doing sports fundraisers, other events have been organized in which the entire school can participate.

“Nov. 13th is our boys’ volleyball tournament. It’s going to be pretty competitive, so we are excited. Also the school-wide Pink Day is the first Friday in October,” Banholzer said.

“We’re selling bandana bracelets as well as Competing for the Cure shirts similar to the Dig Pink ones we’ve sold in the past. Once we get a date set we’ll need people to get together 8-man teams for the tournament as well as talk to people interested in getting shirts who may not be at Rolla High School,” Licklider said.

With perseverance and lots of involvement from the students, the fundraiser should take off and be a successful way to raise money and awareness for the worthy cause of breast cancer research.