Bradley’s chapter of Fighting Pretty hosted its third-ever packing party on Thursday, an event dedicated to creating beauty packages for local cancer patients.
The organization holds this event towards the end of every semester as a final chance to get together and make a difference in the community.
Packs contained a combination of items, some provided directly from headquarters, such as the signature boxing gloves, and others created by club members throughout the year.
“This semester we’re including bookmarks because it’s something useful that we can add our own little touch [to], and people can decorate knowing that you’re making something that directly is going to someone battling cancer,” Chelsea Smith, a senior biochemistry major and Fighting Pretty fundraising coordinator, said.
Attendees also designed cards and bracelets to be included in the packs. Many were fresh faces to the Fighting Pretty scene but were drawn to the event with the desire to give back.
“Just being a participant for this organization and being selfless enough to give up some of your time, you can make an impact on people that you’re never going to meet,” Maria Perakis, a senior biochemistry major, said. “It’s okay that you don’t meet them, but they know from a distance that there’s people there that care and want to help.”
“It’s good to get a group of girls together for crafts, and hearing Professor Sandoval speak today was really great,” Perakis added. “It just kind of reminded us why we take the time to do these things.”
Professor Shannon Sandoval, an instructor of communication in residence, kicked off the packing party with a presentation detailing her journey.
Put briefly, Sandoval had multiple brain tumors discovered in November which led her to be on the receiving end of Fighting Pretty’s efforts.
“[The package] was extra special because it was coming from students … it made me feel very seen and very appreciated,” Sandoval said. “One of the biggest concerns I had when I was diagnosed was whether I was going to be able to, or even should, come back, and this welcome back kind of care package felt great.”
Sandoval continued with her presentation by reassuring the audience that what they do matters.
“The notes, the messages, the seemingly small things you’re putting into these packages probably have a bigger impact than you can even imagine,” Sandoval said.
Many club executives and members echoed this sentiment, sharing stories about friends they made packs for or family members who have dealt with cancer.
“I’ve had people in my life that I’ve lost to cancer, and, unfortunately, it is something a lot of people have been affected by in their lives, so I feel like being able to spread Fighting Pretty’s message is important,” Aly Watkins, Fighting Pretty president, said.
“Our goal is to make as many women, specifically for us in Peoria, battling cancer feel strong throughout their fight,” Watkins, a senior nursing major, continued.
The packs created Thursday night will be dispersed to the local Illinois Cancer Center.
Fighting Pretty hasn’t quite wrapped up its semester yet, with plans to host one last fundraising event. Look out for the organization’s table on Thursday and Friday to pick up some shiny summer hair tinsel.
All proceeds from fundraisers go directly toward next semester’s packing party, where all students are invited to come and help out.
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