I have been given an amazing and unique opportunity to contribute to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS), whose mission is to cure blood cancers while improving quality of life for patients and their families. Each year this organization launches its Students of the Year (SoY) fundraising campaign, and I am honored to join this year’s efforts as a 2021 candidate. SoY is a philanthropic leadership development program for high school students. The title Student(s) of the Year, as well as a scholarship, is awarded to the student who raises the most funds over the course of seven weeks. Alongside many others, I have a personal connection with cancer and realize how horrible this disease is. Therefore, I am determined to put forth my efforts to raise money and awareness for this cause.

I am a junior at Perkiomen School and I am involved in our Medical Institute. By being a part of this program, I have the opportunity to experience things that prior, I never thought I would. For example, I take part in many external medical experiences held in several science institutes and hospitals. By doing so, I learn a lot about the field and different diseases, including types of cancer. Cancer affects millions of people across the world, but the LLS fundraiser helps cancer research enormously. Since 2000, more than 40% of all new cancer therapies approved by the FDA were first approved for blood cancer, which helped to save millions.

My Purple & Gold Team, the Red Team, is supporting my efforts this year as one of our service projects.  

This fundraising campaign lasts from January 7 to February 26, 2021. I am working with a team of family and friends to help achieve our overall goal to raise as much money as possible. All proceeds will go directly to LLS in support of its mission. COVID-19 makes this year a very unique time for all, but especially for cancer patients. They are extremely isolated and in a very vulnerable place, so this campaign can be a bright light in a dark time for them. If you would like to support my efforts by making a thoughtful donation to LLS through my fundraising website, please click HERE.  Thank you!

By Alyssa Iacobacci ‘22

Alyssa Iacobacci ’22 is a day student from Gilbertsville, Pa. and is working toward graduating with distinction in the Medical Institute.  Alyssa runs cross country and swims for Perkiomen, plays lacrosse, and has been active in Student Senate. 

I chose Perkiomen because of the inclusive and close community, the diversity, and all of the amazing opportunities that the school provides. I am involved in many things within the school, but what interests me the most is my involvement in the Medical Institute. By being a part of this program, I get to experience things that prior, I never thought I would. For example, I take part in many external medical experiences held in several science institutes and hospitals. By doing so, I learn a lot about the field and different diseases, including types of cancer. Cancer affects millions of people across the world, but the LLS fundraiser helps cancer research enormously. Since 2000, more than 40% of all new cancer therapies approved by the FDA were first approved for blood cancer, which helped to save millions. This is why I am so determined to put forth my efforts to raise money and awareness for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I value the close relationships I make with students and faculty members who encourage me to risk becoming my best.
Alyssa Iacobacci '22