High School MusicalHigh school seniors Jake Stefan, Brittany Johnson, and Seth Corush led their friends to karaoke for the cure in support of ovarian cancer awareness.  | From left to right, Brittany Johnson, Jake Stefan, and Seth Corush. |
Three dedicated high school students from Prairie Ridge High School in Crystal Lake, IL recently raised $6,500 in support of ovarian cancer awareness and research at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Support was provided by corporate sponsorships and contributions from teachers, students, and family members at the “Find a Cure—Karaoke for Cancer” fundraiser. Although new to the world of fundraising, high school seniors Jake Stefan, Brittany Johnson, and Seth Corush have the drive and passion of seasoned fundraising pros. The students were motivated to raise funds for ovarian cancer research in response to the ways the devastating disease affects so many lives. Jake’s mother is currently an ovarian cancer patient, being treated by Dr. Barbara M. Buttin, assistant professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the Feinberg School of Medicine. For their family, their friends, and themselves, the students felt compelled to raise awareness of the disease and increase its philanthropic presence within the community. According to Jake, the three students chose to organize a karaoke fundraiser to attract the attention of the student body and faculty members, and to encourage participation. Working with their National Honor Society faculty advisors, Marcia Lutter and Kathryn Spillner, the students arranged for approval from the administration at Prairie Ridge High School, and took care of much of the “grunt” work on their own. The students had a large and enthusiastic showing of their peers and teachers on the night of the event, and were able to raise several hundred dollars through spontaneous cash donations.Jake and Brittany agreed, “It was a lot of work, but not as intimidating as it first seemed, and all worth it in the end.” “They didn’t feel obligated, they were genuinely excited,” Brittany said of her classmates and teachers. Seth commented, “It was so great to see everyone support this cause whether or not they were personally affected.” Although he has yet to meet her, Jake shared that it was very important for him to support Dr. Buttin’s work in ovarian cancer research. “As my mom’s doctor, she has played a big role in my life, and impacted me personally. I am really grateful for all that she has done.” Funds raised from the “Find a Cure—Karaoke for Cancer” event will support ovarian cancer research at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. | 
