Fourth grader helps organize fundraiser for peer

Proceeds from a concession stand at the Perkins County Elementary Track and Field Day this Friday, May 11 will benefit PCS fifth grader Michelle Briggs, daughter of Chod and Pam Briggs of Brandon. 

The idea to help her schoolmate came from fourth grader Hannah Bishop, daughter of Tim and Kim Bishop of Grant. 

In May 2016, Michelle was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of cancer that starts in the bones.

She went into remission last year after chemotherapy and surgery that removed 22 centimeters of bone from her knee and placed an artificial knee and rod in her leg. 

When Michelle went in for her one-year follow-up appointment this past February, they found a five-centimeter nodule in her right lung. A biopsy showed the osteosarcoma had returned. 

Michelle is currently receiving chemo treatments at Children’s Hospital in Denver. She receives five hours of inpatient chemo for five days every 21 days. She has completed two of 12 cycles. 

Pam said Michelle can’t leave the floor during the five-hour treatments, “so the day can get pretty boring.” Michelle passes the time by watching TV/movies, playing on her tablet and making slime. 

When she’s not receiving treatments and if she’s not too tired, Pam said Michelle likes to go to the studio or the t(w)een space in the hospital whenever possible.

“We are hanging in there and taking it day-by-day,” Pam said.

Those who would like to send cards or well wishes to Michelle and her family may send them to: 306 Robinson St., Grant, NE 69140.

Fundraiser

Tim said Hannah came home from school after learning Michelle’s cancer had returned, and told him she felt they should do something. 

Working with Elementary Principal Nicole Long and P.E. Teacher Shawn Cole, the decision was made to open the concession stand during the annual track and field day, donating the proceeds to the Briggs family. 

Long contacted Darrell Pierce, a member of Thrivent Financial, who applied, received and presented $250 from Thrivent towards the effort. 

Hannah said she is extremely excited and a little bit nervous. 

“I want it to be extremely successful,” she said. 

She has arranged classmates to help her, and adult volunteers have been lined up to help at the stand located on the north side of the high school football field. 

The stand will open at 9 a.m., with a free-will donation of hamburger or hot dog, chips and drink being offered for lunch.

All elementary students will be wearing shirts that feature Michelle’s name and a yellow ribbon representing osteosarcoma.