The Joliet Central High School gymnasium was painted pink during the JTHS Pink Heals volleyball game on October 18, 2018. Filled with students, athletes, families and supporters of the Pink Heals Chapter of Joliet, proceeds from the annual volleyball game of Joliet Central vs. Joliet West went to support women in the community battling cancer.
“For the JTHS girls swim team, what began as fundraiser for our team back in 2015 is now in its fourth year, and more successful than ever,” coach Danielle Maynard said. “Pink Heals is an organization near and dear to the heart of our program and we will continue to support and raise awareness for this organization for many years to come. “
Front row, from left, Autumn Thoms, Stephanie Ramirez, Kaitlin Facchina, Calli Cromwell, Trenton Olson, Julisa Gallegos Back row, from left, Margarita Reyes Torres, Guadalupe Medina, Hannah Rausch, Haley Bueschel, Lauryn Luangsomkham.
“One of our swimmers is very involved with the organization and we have been so grateful for all that they do in our community,” said coach Nick Noenig.
This year, more than $13,000 was raised in total donations for Pink Heals. JTHS Volleyball (Central and West) raised more than $12,500. The JTHS girls swim team raised and additional $500. JROTC collected loose change and donations, and wore pink shoulder cords on their dress days to highlight the fundraiser.
“It’s great that our volleyball programs and community work so hard to help such a great organization like Pink Heals,” said West volleyball coach Al Mart. Coach Pritz and her staff did an amazing job making the event so successful this year.”
Pink Heals Joliet Area Chapter is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that raises awareness and funds for families and non-profit entities that assists in those battling cancer within the cities they visit.
On Nov. 18, Pink Heals went to surprise Joliet Central High School teacher Marie Ryan, who is currently fighting cancer. Led by the Lockport Fire Company 6 and Battalion Chief, there were so many people who visited Marie Ryan’s home to show their love and support, including her family, friends, and staff and students from Joliet Township High School.