Stand up to cancer in a new campus club

Friday, February 26, 2010
Zane Franklin
Staff Writer

“This is where the end of cancer begins: when we unite in one unstoppable movement and stand up to cancer.”

So goes the motto of Stand Up to Cancer, a charitable organization run by celebrities who have been affected by cancer.

This year, junior Carla Villacorta brought Stand Up to Cancer to Costa with Stand Up to Cancer Club, which she founded for Mira Costa students to raise money for finding a cure to the devastating disease.

Members of the club participate in various fundraisers and activities to raise money for fight against cancer. They also strive to promote awareness of cancer’s effects and how easy it is to help the fight against the disease.

“The exact purpose of the club is to raise awareness about the different types of cancer and to raise money for cancer research. It is also to show Mira Costa students that even though we are young we can make a difference if we work together,” Villacorta said.

Stand Up to Cancer Club was approved by the Associated Student Body in late September and first met on Oct. 9.

Villacorta said she hopes to educate and make students at Mira Costa more aware of different types of cancer.

“Many students at Mira Costa, including myself, have been affected by cancer, be it in their friends, family members or even themselves,” Villacorta said.

Stand Up to Cancer Club meets in room 45 every Friday during lunch. Since its formation, Stand Up to Cancer Club’s attendance has grown to an average of 25 students per meeting.

“I’m in the club because I feel that it’s good to help fight against cancer,” senior Nick Kosmata said.

The club is advised by Mira Costa English teacher Paula Bozeman, herself a cancer survivor.

“Carla really got the idea and came to me to be the adviser, and I couldn’t think of a worthier cause,” Bozeman said.

The members of the club are planning various fundraisers and activities, such as a “Mustang Corral for Cancer” planned for early February.

This event is an afternoon camp for children of all ages in which club members and some of Mira Costa’s athletes will spend the afternoon with children playing soccer, football, baseball or dress-up. All proceeds will go to Stand Up to Cancer.

“Things get done faster and are more fun when there are people who you can share these ideals with,” Villacorta said.