CNS Junior continues dedication to childhood best friend with "Can Crush Cancer" event November 4 & 5

	Kevin Toms, now a junior at Cicero-North Syracuse High School, continues his heartfelt dedication to honor the memory of his childhood best friend, Griffin Engle. This year's "Can Crush Cancer" event, scheduled for November 4 and 5 at Griffin's Guardians, holds special significance as Kevin dedicates it to his "circle of strength" group of friends (pictured below at last year's Gala event for Griffin's Guardians) who have steadfastly supported him in this annual effort for the past four years, despite never having known Griffin. Kevin Toms is far from your typical high school student, with passions that include sneakers, snowboarding, soccer, and spending quality time with family and friends outside of school. What truly sets him apart is the lofty goal he has set for himself by the time he graduates. For years, Kevin has been tirelessly working to raise funds in memory of his childhood best friend, Griffin Engle, who passed away from cancer at the young age of only seven. Kevin and Griffin were inseparable schoolmates at Cicero Elementary School.
Lori Lake Toms, Kevin's mother, emphasizes the special bond between the two best friends, stating, "The boys were friends since they were in UPK together. The loss of Griffin and Griffin's journey changed him forever." This year marks the fourth edition of the "Can Crush Cancer" event, organized by Kevin, who is now 16 years old. Over the years, Kevin has demonstrated unwavering determination and commitment, successfully raising nearly $14,000. As he continues on his journey, Kevin aspires to achieve a remarkable goal of $20,000 by the time he graduates from C-NS. To get closer to this ambitious target, Kevin is hosting a bottle and can drive as part of his "Crush Cancer" campaign during the upcoming November 4 and 5 weekend. Lori remains dedicated to spreading the word about this year's event, emphasizing Kevin's passion for helping children and raising awareness. She shares, "[Kevin] truly has a passion for helping kids and bringing awareness. The event and his volunteer work are how he deals with the pain." The "Can Crush Cancer" bottle and can drive will take place on both Saturday and Sunday, November 4 and 5, at Griffin's Guardians (8116 Brewerton Rd.) in Cicero. Families are encouraged to participate by dropping off their bottles and cans on either day between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Griffin's mother, Erin Engle, continues to reflect on the incredible support received from the greater Cicero community. She expresses her gratitude, saying, "Our family has been blessed with this community's support since the moment Griffin was diagnosed. We have been carried throughout the difficult times and celebrated during the times of triumph by our community. I always say that Griffin has brought some amazing people into our lives who have become our friends. From the inception of our charity, we have always stressed the importance of involving our youth as an integral part of the organization." Erin extends her heartfelt appreciation to Kevin for organizing this year's event and for his ongoing dedication to honoring her son's memory. She comments, "Kevin Toms is an exemplary representation of our youth, bringing people together to make a difference with his Can Crush Cancer fundraiser. Through this fundraiser, he is uniting the community in the fight against pediatric cancer while also preserving the legacy of his best friend, Griffin." Kevin Toms and Griffin Engle's enduring friendship continues to inspire those around them. Kevin's unwavering commitment to raising funds for children with cancer in Griffin's memory stands as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the importance of community support. For those who wish to contribute to Griffin's Guardians in support of Kevin Toms' "Can Crush Cancer" event but do not have bottles and cans to donate, they can visit https://www.griffinsguardians.org/can-crush-cancer.html to make a virtual donation. All donations will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $250 Visa gift card. Your support can make a significant difference in the fight against pediatric cancer and in preserving Griffin's memory.