Deerfield Kindergartner Inspires Top Fundraising Efforts

Andrew's Pit Crew, a team assembled in honor of Deerfield kindergartner and cancer patient Andrew Shan, is ranked second out of nearly 180 teams in this year's Valerie Fund Walk.

Andrew Shan was diagnosed with stage 4 Neuroblastoma on Feb. 20, 2013. Over the past year, he has endured ten rounds of chemo and two rounds of high dose radiation treatments, as well as several blood transfusions and surgical procedures. 

Andrew and his family have been visiting the Valerie Center in Morristown since shortly after the diagnosis.

"It's been a real blessing to that family to have a local place," Pit Crew organizer Syna Brenton said. 

Brenton, whose daughter is a classmate of Andrew's older sister, organized the Pit Crew in honor of Andrew and his family. Andrew's parents, as well as his older brother and sister, will participate in the Valerie Fund Walk. Andrew is also planning to attend. 

The Valerie Fund provides support for the health care of children with cancer and blood disorders. Families are able to receive medical care, counseling, and other services in New Jersey, New York, and the Philadelphia area. The Valerie Fund Walk will be held on June 14 in Verona Park.

To donate or join Andrew's Pit Crew, visit the Andrew's Pit Crew website.