VERO BEACH — They’re only in sixth grade, but an inspirational group of schoolgirls are proving that friendship is everlasting – even after the passing of a friend.
Calling themselves Friends of Emma – FOEs of Cancer, this sweet band of warriors have taken a stand – in this case an Art for Emma Kid-Made Art and Lemonade Stand – to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and for Candlelighters of Brevard County in memory of their friend Emma Stewart.
As a testament to Emma, who succumbed to her courageous battle with leukemia at age 10 on Dec. 22, 2011, the former schoolmates hosted their first event last year on what would have been Emma’s 11th birthday.
Fresh off last year’s successful event, which raised close to $4,000, the girls enlisted the support of a growing number of friends, family members, teachers and businesses for their second annual Art for Emma fundraiser last Sunday, which took place outside Twirl Kids’ Boutique and Treasure Lane Jewelry.
“Emma liked art,” said lead organizer Clara Martin with a shy, dimpled smile.
A Willow School student when she passed away, Emma had previously met Clara Martin, Anika Heuberger and Elise Mallon as classmates in elementary school.
The three are now at Storm Grove and Gifford Middle Schools and Saint Edward’s School.
“We have people from four different Vero schools,” said Clara, explaining that when the girls split into different middle schools even more students signed on to help the cause.
“This is Clara’s Box of Dreams,” said Melissa Martin, pointing to a large box, where people were depositing hand-written wishes.
“We’re going to possibly put them together in a book or something,” said Clara.
“I want to somehow change the world. I don’t know how yet. When I grow up I want to become a scientist and possibly find a cure for cancer.”
“It’s such a gift to me, though I know that’s not the point of it,” said Emma’s mother Ava Stewart.
“To see the spirit in them, which I know my daughter recognized. She picked amazing friends. She was a sage character; she really was. She was wise beyond her years.”
Stewart, now an art teacher at the Willow School added, “In so many ways, her spirit is alive and thriving, even if it’s bittersweet. Her classroom became my art room; again bittersweet. She still nourishes me.”
Donations in Emma’s name may be sent to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society or to Candlelighters, which assists the families of children battling the disease.
