THE ECHO

By Malak Marzak

What is the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society?
It’s a nonprofit organization that raises money for people who suffer from blood cancers.

What made you start Team Ishneet?
My cousin, Aryan Chander, did it last year with Nick Rankin, and I was interested because I was one of their team members on their committee.

What do you do as part of Team Ishneet?
I’m the pillar of patient support, which means I raise money to help with medical bills and put patients’ children through college. I believe money should never be a worry when a family is going through something so big.

Do you have any family members who have been affected by cancer?
My grandma went through breast cancer from 2016 to 2017, and that really motivated me to spread awareness.

How can students at Avon help?
I’ll have red buckets at the end of some basketball games where they can donate money. I’m also planning to host events at elementary schools, such as bingo or game nights—so if you have little siblings, that would be helpful. I’m also organizing an auction, so if your parents like to bid on items, attending the auction would be a great way to support us.

What are some of the memories you’ve formed by helping LLS?
The team meetings I’ve held at my house are so fun. When we’re brainstorming, we come up with wild ideas. For example, one of my friend’s dads has an extra car he wants to auction off, which I thought was insane! Last year, as a team member, the end-of-year party was so memorable because I got to see how much money we raised.

What advice would you give to students interested in forming their own committee next year?
This isn’t very big in Avon, so I’m the only person in our area doing it. It’s more common in places like Zionsville and Carmel. You can ask me for guidance or reach out to LLS directly if you’re interested. I think creating your own committee and being part of this is really cool.

Has working with LLS taken an emotional toll?
Yes. We have someone named Ben who works with us throughout our entire campaign. He was diagnosed with leukemia as a freshman when he was 15, and now he’s a junior. Attending LLS events and hearing about his experience is definitely emotional. Many of us think of cancer as something that affects older people, but hearing it from someone our age is really inspiring.

What workload comes with being part of LLS?
It depends on your group and how much time they’re willing to dedicate. The kickoff was really stressful, especially with deadlines like sending out emails. If you manage your time well before Jan. 16, the workload can be a little lighter.

How can students join Team Ishneet?
Just ask me! Find me on Instagram, DM me, or just reach out when you see me.