Anthony Bufanio

Dear Sharra Rainbolt Memorial Scholarship Committee, I am incredibly grateful and honored to be chosen as a recipient of the Sharra Rainbolt Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship not only provides vital financial support for my studies at Georgetown University but also inspires me deeply as I pursue my passion for pharmacology. Coming from a family that has faced health challenges, including my father’s battle with cancer, this scholarship holds special meaning for me. It strengthens my commitment to advancing research and making a real difference in the field of medicine. Thank you for believing in me and investing in my future. Your generosity encourages me to keep pushing forward and to give back to others in the same way one day. With Sincere Gratitude, Anthony Bufanio

Sadie Hughes

Gratitude. Connection. Empathy. I felt these emotions waking up to an email announcing the winners of this year's Sharra Rainbolt Memorial Scholarship through the Shred Cancer Association. I am honored to be among the scholars carrying on the legacy of Sharra, a young mother—a victim of cancer's thievery. Thinking of Sharra's children, I cried for them. I understand the deep chasm loss leaves behind. Sharra was so young, so beautiful. I sense her vibrancy from her pictures and the tributes others make in her memory. Like Sharra, I have three children myself, two boys and a girl. I will think of Sharra along my journey. I wish she had the same opportunity in her life that the scholarship so generously offers me today. To Sharra's family, thank you for sharing your mother through this memorial scholarship. To the Shed Cancer Association, thank you for this opportunity. I will bring Sharra's memory with me as I begin law school. I am thankful to play a part in her story. Thank you for believing in my story.

Aliyah Harris

This scholarship touches a part of me that still hurts. Cancer didn’t just affect my family it changed us forever. The stress, the pain, the financial weight… it’s something you never forget. Being chosen for this feels like someone out there sees that struggle and wants to help me keep going for my career for cancer research and becoming an radiation therapist and the purpose i feel god truly wants me to take!!! I’m truly overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you for believing in me when I needed it most this means more than you’ll ever know.

Ornella Makolo

Dear Shred Cancer Association, Thank you so much for awarding me this scholarship. I can’t begin to express how much this means to me; not just financially, but emotionally. Your support comes at a time when I’ve been navigating so much, and receiving this was a reminder that I’m not alone. It feels like a little light in the middle of everything. This scholarship is helping me pursue my graduate education and continue pushing toward my goals, and I’m incredibly grateful to be chosen as a recipient. Thank you for believing in me and for all the work you do to uplift others who’ve been impacted by cancer. With all my heart, Ornella Makolo