Rhiannon’s Walk set for Nov. 7

Wanting to make her senior project one for the memory books, Custer High School senior Ellie Parsons decided to put forth a little bit more effort than usual, so she developed Rhiannon’s Walk.

Rhiannon’s Walk is a walk to help the American Cancer Society find a cure for leukemia, which is the most common childhood cancer, affecting more than 3,500 children in the U.S. every year.

One of those affected by leukemia was  Rhiannon Purcella, daughter of Seth and Katie Purcella, Rapid City, and niece of Dale Schaffer, Custer High School math teacher. Rhiannon was diagnosed with childhood leukemia when she was only 4. Her fight with leukemia is the inspiration for Parsons’ lofty project.

“Usually little effort is put into senior projects,” Parsons said. “I decided to put a little more effort into it and make it more memorable.”

Senior project coordinator Nancy Gausman is proud of Parsons for going that extra mile. 

“I always appreciate when young people are thinking about other people,” she said. “There are many senior projects that are great, but it is nice when a student does that extra bit and thinks about helping community. 

“Anytime someone organizes a community event it is a challenge. Ellie should be commended for being willing to tackle it.”

Registration for the walk is at 9 a.m. with the walk beginning at 10 a.m. Rhiannon’s Walk will start at the Custer High School parking lot and will conclude at the Stockade Lake Fort parking lot. Parsons is asking for a $20 donation to those willing to walk. The donation price also includes a free T-shirt.

“This is for a good cause,” said Parsons. “A lot of people can be helped by those willing to give a little bit of their time.”

All proceeds raised will be donated to the American Cancer Society.