For my birthday this year, I would like to do something a little different. I’m turning 21 (on the 21st of January), which means it’s my golden year. But the more I think about turning 21 and what I want, the more I can’t seem to think of anything that I couldn’t already buy for myself. Don’t get me wrong, presents are great, but what’s even better is giving back.

The American Cancer Society, an organization I have been involved with on and off since I started high school, aims to create a world with more birthdays. And this year, that phrase takes on a little more meaning for me. My uncle has cancer. He doesn’t have much time left. And instead of being one of those people who you see in movies who take their last six months as an excuse to do all the ridiculous things they didn’t do their previous 50 years of life, my uncle is giving everything away. His house, his car, his air miles, literally, everything he has worked for and earned up until now, will no longer be his within a short period of time. For example, he is giving enough air miles for my parents to fly to Laos, to have them look after the details on an orphanage he was involved with for many years and will continue to support after he is gone. My uncle has seen so many places and met so many people that he has lived more lifetimes than anyone could ever dream of. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that it is too soon for him, as it is too soon for so many other people. It makes me sad that I get to have this birthday when other people are not so lucky.

So I am asking you, my family and friends who have been so supportive and kind for (almost) 21 years of my life, to help me as I aim to raise $2,100 to donate to the American Cancer Society. It is an amazing organization that I am proud to be a part of and if I achieve this goal, give me even more reason to celebrate this year.

Please click this LINK to my donation page.