Number of Participants: 44
Hours Donated: 10
Value of Time Served: $3,718
Event Type: Health & Medicine
Sport: Girls Lacrosse
School: Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Sr High School
Date: May 6, 2024
Location:
Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake Central School District
NY, USA
About:
In the wake of Olivia Allen’s passing from leukemia on March 28, her impact resonated far beyond Saratoga Springs. Graduating from Saratoga Springs High School in 2023, Allen coined the #LiveLikeLiv mantra, advocating for positivity amidst adversity.
Her legacy inspired a ripple effect, prompting friends and community members to embody her spirit. Recently, the Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake girls’ lacrosse team paid tribute to Allen during a game against Saratoga Springs, merging sportsmanship with a heartfelt cause.
Allen’s own battle underscored the critical need for bone marrow donors. Despite efforts to find a match, she passed away before receiving a transplant. In response, Burnt Hills organized an event in partnership with the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP) to raise awareness and funds.
The game, imbued with purpose, offered attendees the opportunity to join the registry with a simple cheek swab. As Burnt Hills senior Leah Scalise aptly put it, even the smallest act can save a life.
The event also symbolized unity between rival teams, as Saratoga Springs coach Jen Furze collaborated with Burnt Hills to support the cause. Their efforts were further underscored by the presence of Charli Martin, a sixth-grader battling leukemia herself, who befriended Allen during their treatment journeys.
Martin’s resilience and optimism, like Allen’s, serve as a beacon of hope. Despite her own struggles, Martin continues to inspire, reminding us all of the power of a smile.
Reflecting on Allen’s legacy, it’s evident that her impact transcends the boundaries of a playing field. Whether through sportsmanship, camaraderie, or a simple smile, living like Liv means embracing each day with positivity and resilience.
