Lakeview Centennial High School senior Christopher Caldwell recently planned and hosted two events to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The first, a lip sync battle, provided an oppo
rtunity for him to compete for a scholarship in the organization’s Student of the Year contest while raising funds.
More than 30 people, including students and teachers, participated in the event which featured eight acts complete with backup singers and dancers.
Chris was one of six North Texas students who participated in the LLS fundraising campaign and the top fundraising student after the six week campaign will receive a college scholarship.
Caldwell also hosted a benefit talent showcase where students from each Garland ISD high school as well as a local dance company performed for an audience. This event, which included an auction, also served as a fundraiser for LLS.
“The showcase highlighted the many different talents that students from the surrounding areas have as well as giving back to a great cause,” he said. “Many businesses in the area were kind enough to donate gift certificates and items for the auction.” 
Caldwell and the other four high school senior candidates raised $63,000 in six weeks for LLS. Even though Caldwell did not win first place, he collected $3,000 for the organization and did receive a scholarship.
The experience, however, turned out to be much more than a scholarship opportunity.
“Of course, when I first found out about this campaign, it was because of the scholarship but after researching the organization and getting a better understanding of what they stood for, I had to join in,” Caldwell said. “I have not dealt with the effects of blood cancer, but I have had family members affected with other cancer and
I know the pain that families go through.”
The LCHS senior added that he wanted to be an advocate for cancer research and aid in finding a cure.
“This process has shown me something greater than just a 
scholarship, it has shown me my purpose,” he said.”
In addition to his work on the LLS fundraising events, Caldwell is in the Collegiate Academy at LCHS and will receive his associate degree in May, a month before he gets his high school diploma. He is also choir president and Texas Youth and Government president. He serves on the Principal’s Advisory Council as well.
The busy student also enjoys his weekend job at Raising Cane’s.
Photos courtesy of Madison Plunk, madsplunk photography.