The Cancer Connection Idaho

Cancer takes a toll on all involved, changing the lives of the patients as well as those of their friends and family. It can cause personal discoveries, fears and doubts. But the Cancer Connection Idaho looks to give teens an opportunity to share their stories and win cash prizes in its second annual Write from the Heart writing contest. Whether the stories stem from personal diagnosis or that of a loved one, the contest offers a therapeutic outlet for challenging emotions.

Contestants are urged to write about the impact of cancer on their lives, whether good or bad, big or small. The contest is open to Idaho teens, ages 13 through 19, and will be judged by local celebrities, including musician Bill Coffey and Idaho artists Carl Rowe and Amy Westover. Over $8,000 in prize money will be awarded to a total of twelve winners in both Survivor and Friends/Family categories. The judges are looking for an honest, well-written approach to the trials and triumphs of teens and their families.

Over 70 submissions were received in the 2014 contest, and the Cancer Connection Idaho hopes to surpass that number this year, creating a network of support and understanding for all families involved. Teens today face more challenges and demands than ever before and deserve a platform where their voices can be heard. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity!

Categories:

Survivor: Your experience as a cancer patient or survivor.

Friend/Family: Your experience with a family member or friend with cancer.

Awards:

1st ($1,000, Susan Sherlock Teen Writing Award), 2nd ($600) and 3rd ($400) place cash awards will be given in these categories:

Ages 13-15- Friend or Family Ages 13-15 Survivor

Ages 16-19 Friend or Family Ages 16-19 Survivor

Timeline:

March 20, 2015: Essay must be received (not postmarked) by this date. Website will allow submissions until 11:30 pm.

April 20, 2015: Finalists announced

May 2, 2015: Awards Ceremony brunch, 11:00 am at the Owyhee in Boise

Rules/Guidelines:

· In essay format of 500 to 1,500 words, share your experience navigating the challenge of cancer in your life.

· One submission per person. May be typed or handwritten. Submission must include your name, age, email address, mailing address, phone number and the name of your parent or guardian. Submissions without this information will not be considered.

· Previous winners will not be considered for awards.

· Participants must fit within the age categories as of May 2, 2015.

· Submissions must be accompanied by the official entry form.

Tips:

Be yourself and write from the heart. Proofread! (Spell Check is not proofreading). Have someone read over your essay before submitting.

Mail Essays To:

The Cancer Connection Idaho

Attn: Teen Writing Contest

2504 Kootenai St.

Boise, ID 83705

For complete rules/guidelines visit www.CancerConnectionIdaho.org

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