The eighth recipient of this year’s Cancer Freeze event is Pleasant Home’s Kennedy Cleghorn.

Community support for the PHS freshman has been tremendous, so it was no shock when Cleghorn was announced as part of the fundraising event established in 2007 by Caleb Davidson in memory of family and friends who had passed away with cancer. For a $20 entry fee, skiers brave the waters of Florala’s Lake Jackson in the middle of the winter – which led to the name “Cancer Freeze.” It will be held on Sat., Feb. 1, 2014.

Proceeds of the event will be split among the nine recipients – two of Florala, four from Andalusia, two from Paxton, Fla., and another from Crestview, Fla. They are Rylan Pettie, Megan Kelley and Bailey Byrd, all of Andalusia; Glenn Morris of Crestview, Fla.; Richard Barnes of Florala, and Sheryl Evans and Stacey Spears Leddon of Paxton, Fla.

The final recipient will be announced in the coming days.

Cleghorn was diagnosed with a large tumor on her right ovary along with multiple thyroid nodules. She had surgery to remove the tumor and chemotherapy was recommended.

“Currently, Kennedy’s treatment recommendations are three rounds of chemo lasting three days per round with a day of fluid infusion,” said her stepmother, Emily Cleghorn. “She will undergo further testing after her 3rd round to determine if further chemo is required. While her primary oncologist is at UAB, she is receiving infusions through Nemours in Pensacola. Since she requires fluids throughout her chemo, Kennedy is admitted in the hospital for each cycle.”

And as one would expect, those treatments and the travel are placing a financial hardship on the family, and that’s where Cancer Freeze steps in.

Last year, the group raised more than $30,000, which was split among three recipients.

The group hopes to shatter that record by getting a record number of participants in February, Davidson said.

And for those who don’t want to get wet in February, there are a variety of other ways to participate, he said.

“In addition to the water event, 5K and the usual chili cook-off, last year we added a bass tournament, pancake breakfast and motorcycle ride,” Davidson said. “This year we’re adding a car show the day of Cancer Freeze and a beauty pageant two weeks prior – plus more kids stuff.”

Sponsorships are also needed for the event and are available on three levels – $100, $250 and $500 – which will allow one to have his or her company name, business or personal message placed on the back of this year’s shirt.
Donations are tax-deductible, he said.

For those wishing to participate, donate or sponsor, contact Davidson at 850-978-3726, by e-mail at calebadavidson@yahoo.com, visit the organization’s Facebook page or by mail at P.O. Box 92, Florala, AL 36442.