One of our 2009 TD Bank Young Heroes Awards actually went out to a pair of Young Heroes, two cousins who worked together to help the sick.

Erika and Mike are a phenomenal pair who put their compassion, ingenuity and friendship into action. When two of their family members were diagnosed with breast cancer within 6 months of each other, they learned how much this disease can devastate a family.  Erika and Mike decided to take action.  They joined the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” to raise money for the cause.

However, they realized that more work needed to be done. Although there are many charities that raise money to find a cure, there weren’t any that directly helped those receiving treatment. Women dealing with a diagnosis of breast cancer face many hardships. Hospital bills, transportation costs, and prescriptions add up very quickly. Some patients are single mothers, and time spent in treatment means less time at work and less money for the family.

So Erika and Mike each committed $500 of their own money to start a non-profit, “Breast Friends Forever.”  Recently, the B.F.F. Gala celebration raised $37,000 in one evening! These two Young Heroes used their heads, hearts, and hands to help out in a way that no one had ever done before. Bravo to these two Young Heroes!

Do you know any heroes, 18 years old or younger, who are doing some outstanding things in your school or community? Nominate them for a 2010 TD Bank Young Heroes Award. To see more of the 2009 TD Bank Young Heroes (and heroes of all ages), visit the National Liberty Museum! We're open Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.