East Elementary kicked off its annual Pennies for Patients fundraiser with a rally on Thursday, January 8th.  The fundraiser hits close to home this year with “Team James” t-shirts that highlight James Crow, a 2012 graduate of Brownwood High School who was diagnosed with leukemia in November.

To raise money, students will bring in pennies they collect each day for two weeks, and proceeds benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.  “The money we raise with Pennies for Patients will go to help discover a cure for leukemia and lymphoma,” stated Nanda Wilbourn.  “Even though this money does not go directly to the Crow family, it will benefit them and researchers who continue to find ways to treat and cure these diseases.”

Crow played football and baseball for the Lions, and following his graduation from BHS has moved on to college to play baseball. “He is currently undergoing treatment each week and we are all looking forward to his total recovery,” said Wilbourn.  “James’ mom, Melissa, teaches third-grade at Northwest, and his dad, David, works at the Havins Unit.  The Crows are a wonderful family.”

The fundraiser will run through January 23rd, and “Team James” t-shirts can be ordered at the East Elementary office through that time.

Pictured above, East Elementary principal Nanda Wilbourn speaks to students about how their fundraiser can help James Crow and others with leukemia or lymphoma.

Pictured above is a preview of the front and back of the “Team James” t-shirt.