Meet Cancer Grad Cheerleader - Jacquelyn Seltzer.
Name: Jacquelyn Seltzer
How old were you when you became a Cheerleader? 18
Is there a specific type of cancer you are focused on? Blood Cancer
What got you started? My teacher (Mrs. Wukich) was first contacted by my representative, Jen Miller, who was inquiring about any students that may be interested in competing in a fundraising challenge for the Student of the Year, through the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. At first, Mrs. Wukich thought it was eerie because she had just gotten over Lymphoma, but after asking Jen if that was the reason she was being contacted, she informed her that it was just a coincidence. Despite it being a coincidence, since I am very involved in the community, I was the first person Mrs. Wukich thought about, and she then asked me. Admittedly, I was not thrilled to do it. It sounded like a lot of work, and with college applications, studying, and swim team, I didn’t think I’d have a lot of time. However, Mrs. Wukich told me to think about it, so I went home and brainstormed some ideas. As I was brainstorming, I started to get really into the project, and was excited about it. I then went to school the next day and told Mrs. Wukich that I would do the project, but did not expect to win the title of Student of the Year since I figured it would be challenging going against other students. I told Mrs. Wukich I was doing the project for her and that she was my inspiration for keeping me going.
“I told Mrs. Wukich I was doing the project for her and that she was my inspiration for keeping me going.”
What was your hardest moment (or moments) as a cheerleader and how did you you get through it/them? I’d say the hardest part of the project is asking people to donate money. Since almost everyone is dedicated to some charity, they can’t give to all of the charities, and I understand that. You just get a little down sometimes when they commend you for all your hard work, but have to say no.
Any helpful (tangible) tips or tricks you discovered for helping others? What is your go to (i.e. making food, emptying dishwasher, listening and not trying to fix the problem, etc.)? The trick to getting people to want to donate is food. People love getting something in return and are willing to spend money on anything as long as it benefits them. Not everyone is like this, but some are naturally willing to donate. However, the ones who pinch their pennies will give you everything as long as they get a sweet treat in return.
“You just get a little down sometimes when they commend you for all your hard work, but have to say no.”
Did you learn anything about yourself? If so, what was it? I learned to be patient. When dealing with raising a significant amount of money, you have to learn how to work with other people and that mistakes happen. You have to learn how to deal with it efficiently and effectively in order to not lose your cool, and I think I learned that it’s a lot easier than you think as long you can focus on the end result.
What is your Instagram/Facebook/YouTube/Website/Fundraiser/etc. (if you’d like us to link you)? http://events.lls.org/pages/wpa/wpasoy2017/jseltzer
Jacquelyn's goal is to raise $25,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society before the end of February.
We remember being Jacquelyn's age and we are so grateful that she is taking on the challenge to help the cancer community by raising money. To show our support, we are sharing Jacquelyn's story and project. If you are able to donate, or share her link, please do.