Revamped Beads2Cure team reaches fundraising goal

Tyra Abell embarked on a fundraising journey five years ago, selling colourful beaded bracelets with the goal of raising CI$40,000 for the Cayman Islands Cancer Society. Not only has she now reached that goal, but she also has passed the spirit of charitable giving onto more than 80 students at Cayman International School (CIS) through the Beads2Cure fundraising after-school club.

Tyra is now a college student focused on business studies at the University of Calgary, but she still finds time to check in with the team that she selected to be the new leaders of Beads2Cure. This dedicated group of students includes Madison Black, fundraising coordinator & manager, Lauren Pershick, social media manager, Mateus Rocco, meeting manager and Cole Abell, financial manager.

Tyra Abell inspired her fellow students to sign up to volunteer their time, but they also had personal reasons as well.

“My family has been impacted by cancer and shortly after I took on the role of fundraising manager my uncle passed away from cancer, which has inspired me to be part of the Beads2Cure Leadership Team," Black said.

Rocco says the students understand the importance of giving back and doing something positive for those who need it most.

“I am sure everyone can say they have had cancer in their family or know someone who has cancer," he said. "I am glad that by working with the team, I am able to help many people and make a difference.”

Pershick was only 12 years old when she met Tara Abell, who had just started her fundraising initiative. Pershick had long wanted to volunteer her time through the group.

“I always wanted to be involved and when I got to high school and had the opportunity to become one of the managers, I was so excited," Pershick said. "After every fundraiser I always feel a sense of joy in my heart since I am helping the community.”

Rounding out the Beads2Cure revamped leadership team is Cole Abell, Tyra’s younger brother. He says he is very proud of his big sister and her achievements, including a special volunteer award named after Tyra that was presented to her by the former Governor of the Cayman Islands, Martyn Roper.

“Tyra has always inspired me and when I saw her fundraising for Beads2Cure, I knew I wanted to help," Cole Abell said.

The cost of the Beads2Cure bracelets ranges from CI$5 to $15.

Having reached their initial fundraising goal, the team members have now set their sights on a new goal — CI$50,000 — with several fundraising events already scheduled for this year.