Meet Brennan: 2022 College Scholar

Our College Scholars receive a financial scholarship to help with academic expenses, and each scholar commits to undertaking a volunteer project of their choosing related to childhood cancer advocacy, with support and mentorship from the Children's Cancer Cause team.

Brennan’s Story

Brennan (Brighton, Michigan) was diagnosed with a rare type of Hodgkin lymphoma when he was 14 years old.

“I spent much of my freshman year of high school battling this ruthless disease,” he told us. “The reflection of my pale bald head made me wonder ‘who is this stranger left beaten up by cancer?’ These agonizing thoughts often drowned out my enthusiastic and energetic self.”

Brennan persevered. Today, he is an honor student who has served as Class President all four years of high school. He sits on the Michigan Medicine Adolescent & Young Adult Oncology Board and plans to study molecular biology at the University of Michigan.

Brennan’s Advocacy Project

Brennan’s particular cancer interest is prevention, so he is focusing his volunteer project on researching and raising awareness around the possible toxic risks of crumb rubber used in turf fields.

As a soccer player, he wants to spread awareness about how other players can limit exposure, such as removing shoes/cleats in the house and practicing proper hygiene after playing on turf fields.

“Although there isn’t yet sufficient evidence to prove that crumb rubber causes cancer, it’s important not to take any chances,” says Brennan. “I want to raise awareness about toxic chemicals and the importance of child health and how to play safely.”