Community Encouraged To Unite For ‘Coins For The Cure’

Next month, Newtown schools and local businesses will be conducting a fundraiser for the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society in memory of Newtown resident Greg Chion, who lost his battle with leukemia on October 26, 2000. He was 17 years old.

The popular Newtown High School student was described by many as “the nicest guy, always there for everyone.” He was captain of the swim team, co-editor of the senior yearbook, a drum major in the high school marching band, a member of National Honor Society, and a member of SpanishHonor Society.

A scholar athlete, Greg was also a recipient of the DeGroat Athletic award.  He had plans to pursue a career in architecture after high school.

Leukemia, lymphoma and myeloma are cancers that originate in the bone marrow or lymphatic tissues as the result of an acquired genetic injury to the DNA of a single cell, which becomes malignant and multiplies continuously. This abnormal accumulation interferes with the production of healthy blood cells.

Leukemia alone causes more deaths among children under 15 than any other disease.

Hawley Elementary School’s chapter of the Kids Care Club initiated this drive. Ginny Chion developed the “Coins for the Cure” project itself in 2001 with assistance from Beth Montoya, Marg Studley, Maria Rojo, Linda Maggio and Janis Solheim. Past drives have raised over $8,000 for the Leukemia-Lymphoma Society.

Collection containers will be placed in both schools and local businesses. Members of the community are invited to donate pennies, spare change, or any amount possible for this cause. Donations may also be made via check and should be made out to Kerry Mierzwa, c/o The Leukemia-Lymphoma Society/Fairfield County Chapter, 25 Third Street, Stamford CT 06905.

In addition, there will be a night-time walk this fall, “Light the Night,” whereby the participants will collect pledges and then walk carrying illuminated balloons throughout town. It will be a child-friendly event with refreshments from sponsoring organizations.

For more information about this event or Coins for Cure contact Mrs Chion at 426-8501.