This is our 7th year of participation with St. Baldricks Day. In 2005, I met Jose Andres. He was a special boy, interested in the world, inquisitive, caring, and most of all, full of life. Unlike many of his classmates, Jose also had cancer, rhabdomyosarcoma (or cancerous tumor of the muscles that are attached to the bones) to be specific. Despite that fact, Jose and his family remained upbeat and full of grace. Although I am sure that they never intended to become these, they evolved into my heroes. Jose was my hero, a warrior. Over the next four years, I got to know Jose, the kid and human spirit. After serving as his 5th grade teacher and as his 6th grade homebound teacher, Jose became more than a "student," but a "friend," rather. This evolution in our relationship was validated by Jose himself. After a total of three bouts with rhabdomyosarcoma, and one bout with leukemia, the doctors could do no more. It was 2009, when we held a farewell party - yes, a party, a celebration of life. There I was, trying to be strong. But Jose was stronger. I made some mention that he would always be close to my heart, a true gift of a student. He replied with a laugh and smile: "You are my friend!" Today, Jose's spirit lives on in two notable ways. First, future generations of his fifth grade Clubhouse have continued to raise money for his favorite foundation, St. Baldricks Day. Second, Jose is the inspiration for my newborn son's middle name, "Joseph." St. Baldricks Day is a celebration of those children fighting cancer. For us, it is a show of support and solidarity, especially as many of us commit to shaving our heads in March. It is a small symbol of support for our young heroes - our warriors. Please join me and my class in our quest to raise funds to support children's cancer research, medical training, and treatment. Also, this year, our class has adopted the cause of 8 year old Emily Friar, who is also a student at our school. Just recently, she was diagnosed with leukemia. Her third grade teacher, Mrs. Hannah, has valiantly rallied resources to support Emily and her family. As the 5th grade Clubhouse, we are all too familiar with this situation. Therefore we have committed to working this year not just in memory of Jose, but also in honor of Emily and all other students who battle or have battled cancer (including Johnny Callan).