B+ Hero Lucas, Ryan & Beta Theta Pi

“I became involved with The B+ Foundation during the fall semester of my sophomore year at Northeastern University. At the time, I had no idea just how much B+ would shape my college experience—I was just happy to support an organization committed to helping kids with cancer. In the spring, my fraternity was lucky enough to be paired with our B+ Hero, Lucas. The rest of my chapter was equally excited to create a relationship with Lucas and his family and gain a deeper understanding and passion for the fight against childhood cancer.

My relationship with Lucas and his family is stronger than ever! It has been a privilege getting to know him and his family. Seeing him grow up and get stronger this past year is an experience I’ll be forever grateful for. Whether it was hanging out at Boston Commons with him and his big brother Niko, getting the chance to see their pet bearded dragon on one of our many FaceTime calls, or having a pool party at the end of the semester to ring in the summer, this year has been chock full of amazing memories.

I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity The B+ Foundation has provided me and my fraternity. It’s an honor getting to play a role in B+ Hero Lucas’s life, and I can’t wait to see what kind of person he grows up to be.”

B+ Hero Izzie, Camryn & Delta Zeta

“Childhood cancer affects the lives of countless families every day. Among these is B+ Hero Izzie’s family. On February 17, 2023, Izzie’s parents received the heartbreaking news that their 4-year-old has Acute T-cell lymphoblastic Leukemia. The initial shock was overwhelming, but Izzie looked at her mom and said ‘Mommy, it’s going to be okay.’ Izzie’s strength is a message to us all that you can overcome anything with the right attitude. To know Izzie is to love her (with her sass and all). She is the strongest girl I know and I am honored to be a part of her journey as she continues to kick cancer's butt with a smile on her face.

I am truly inspired by The B+ Foundation’s mission to help these families through their journey following this devastating diagnosis. Being a part of the TCNJam family has allowed me to make a difference while working with the most passionate and inspiring group of students. I feel so lucky that Izzie was paired with my sorority, Delta Zeta, through The B+ Heroes Program. It’s been very impactful seeing the positive impact that our community has made on all of our B+ Heroes and their families. Every child deserves to grow up and experience all the amazing things this world has to offer. Izzie is my WHY and I encourage all of you to find your why.”

B+ Hero Tenzin, Max & Tau Kappa Epsilon

“Joining The B+ Foundation this past school year has been one of the most important parts of my college experience. B+ Hero Tenzin and his brother Paxton are both amazing kids and it has been a pleasure to get to know them and their family. A major aspect of our bond is the Minecraft server my chapter has with Tenzin. When it is hard to meet in person, this has served as a great way for all of us to come together. Our chapter really enjoys the time we get to spend together and strive toward making a positive impact on their lives. I am so grateful for this experience and it will always be a part of my life that I will cherish!”

B+ Hero Mia, Nikki & Alpha Chi Omega

“During my freshman year at LMU, I was excited to get involved with The B+ Foundation and soon became a side-kicker for the LMU Dance Marathon. Over the last three years, I have seen LMUDM grow and create a community on campus. At the beginning of last semester, Idiscovered that my sorority, Alpha Chi Omega, would be getting paired with a B+ Hero. From the second I met B+ Hero Mia, I knew that our chapter would develop a love and excitement for her like no other, just like I did. I will not forget the first time I met Mia and how much it changed both my outlook on life and college experience. We learned that she loves Boba and lemons, and she quickly became our best friend.

Over the last year, I got to watch Mia grow, meet her new sorority sisters, and ring the bell, signifying the end of her cancer treatment. Being there to celebrate that milestone with Mia is a moment I will cherish forever. At such a young age, Mia always smiles despite the challenges and is one of the most outgoing people I know! At our Lip Sync show, she asked if she could say hi to every Alpha Chi Omega sister. Mia was excited and not at all nervous to meet all her new sisters. I’m grateful that I’ve gotten to be a part of welcoming Mia into our sorority and cannot wait to see all she does in the world!”

B+ Hero Harry, Natalia, Sara & Alpha Gamma Delta

“When we joined Alpha Gamma Delta at Villanova University, we were immediately told about B+ Hero Harry, a 3-year-old superstar who was newly paired with us through NOVAdance. Since this was during the pandemic, we kept a safe distance from him and only saw him for special occasions. The first time we met Harry was during a car parade at NOVAdance. He was smiling and waving at us from his car, so excited to see everyone cheering for him! Over the next two years, we primarily saw Harry over Zoom, and he would tell us about his most recent adventures. The first formal interaction we had with Harry was at his unforgettable ‘End of Chemotherapy’ party in the Fall of 2022. Running around the yard, playing on bouncy houses, making cotton candy, popcorn, and listening to our favorite truck-themed tunes.

Every experience we have had with B+ Hero Harry over the past four years has been so special. From touring Gladwyne Firehouse to holiday parties on campus, Harry and his family bring so much energy and excitement to every B+ event. Seeing Harry at NOVAdance holiday parties is the highlight of our time with him. His entrance is always followed by a hug that turns into more of a tackle, followed by an immediate game of Jenga, which Harry always wins with his special strategy. The parties typically end with a failed slime creation that leaves us all covered in slime and food-dye-stained hands. Whatever we may be doing, our time with Harry is always filled with laughter, joy, and learning new facts about volcanoes, hurricanes, or anything else that has recently caught his interest. Having the opportunity to hang out with Harry and his family has been so special for us and our chapter, and we are so excited to continue creating memories with them.”

B+ Hero Aiden, Anthony and the University of Delaware Hockey Teams

“I first joined UDance and B+ during my sophomore year when I became a Team Representative for the UD D1 Ice Hockey Team. It was so rewarding to help raise money for a cause I am so passionate about. This past summer, our team was informed that we were being paired with B+ Hero, Aiden. We were ecstatic to hear the news and instantly started planning all of the fun we were going to have together. Myself and some of my teammates were able to meet Aiden and his wonderful family over Zoom during the summer. Right away, I could tell how great Aiden's family was and that this connection would be special.

This fall, we were finally able to meet Aiden in person for his port removal party. Aiden's family and friends welcomed us with open arms and were all so kind. Aiden was shy at first but by the end of the day, he came out of his shell and crushed all of us in air hockey. During our first time meeting, we were also able to talk to Aiden's parents about who Aiden was and some of the stories of his battle with cancer. One of the most touching moments was when Aiden's mom showed us his warrior necklace. This necklace has colored beads on it, each representing a different battle or milestone throughout his journey. The large amount of beads on the necklace showed us how much he had been through. It motivated us all to make it a great time for Aiden any time we were able to see him. Aiden also came to our UDance-themed game. He gave the ceremonial puck drop, got his very own stick, and was our good luck charm as we beat the #4 ranked Liberty Flames for the first time in six years! Overall, our experiences with Aiden and his family have been an absolute blessing! We are so excited to create many more amazing memories with Aiden in the coming months.”

B+ Hero Harlem, Mikyla and Fordham Dance Marathon

“As someone who’s incredibly passionate about working with kids and has personally dealt with close family members battling cancer, I knew joining The B+ Foundation was the right decision. Yet, I was entirely unaware of how deeply I would be impacted until I met B+ Hero Harlem.

In the second semester of my sophomore year at Fordham, I found out that Fordham Dance Marathon had the privilege of being paired with Harlem. The first time I met Harlem was over a Zoom call. We began to create a genuine friendship through games like Among Us and Stumble Guys, which of course, he always won. I quickly learned that Harlem also enjoys playing basketball, hanging out, and winning different board games with his family and friends.

In April 2023, I finally got to meet him in person for the first time at FDM. Hanging out with Harlem and witnessing how he brightened the entire space just by being himself truly inspired me. His positive attitude and happiness brought a smile to everyone’s face. I am speaking for all of Harlem’s friends at Fordham when I say we are so honored and privileged to have him as one of our B+ Heroes!”

B+ Hero Avie, Hope and Alpha Chi Omega

“When I joined The B+ Foundation at Alabama my freshman year, I had no idea the impact this organization would have on me and so many others. The more I became involved, the more I loved B+. I always knew I loved being a part of B+, but my appreciation for this organization grew so much the moment Avie became the Alpha Chi Omega B+ Hero. Avie is everything happy, loving, kind, silly, caring, and of course mermaids and cats. She brightens up every room just by being herself, and it has been an honor to be able to hang out with her whether it’s getting our nails done, watching her cheer, or getting lots and lots of ice cream. I always think I couldn’t love her more until I get to spend another day with her. She has easily been one of the best parts of my college experience, and I am so thankful to be best friends with her! Avie is the most special girl in the world, and I’m so lucky to know and learn from her!”

B+ Hero Charlotte, Sophia, Hannah and Theta Phi Alpha

“Last year, Theta Phi Alpha was given the most wonderful opportunity to get a B+ Hero! As we joined our chapter and gained so many big sisters, we were so fortunate to gain our very own little sister, Charlotte. As TCNJam chapter representatives, we both had the pleasure of first meeting Charlotte over a FaceTime call this past summer. We learned about her love for Paw Patrol and bunnies. She was so adorable and we couldn’t wait to meet in person! When we were able to meet in person, Charlotte was the sweetest little girl and a ray of sunshine in any room.

It’s an honor and a privilege to support her and her family one-on-one like we do. Out of all our involvement on campus, this is our favorite thing. Charlotte has brought so much joy to all of our members and we always look forward to seeing her. Charlotte motivates us to raise the money that we do for The B+ Foundation and has helped us become the top fundraising team. It’s not something that is easily earned but we can definitely pinpoint Charlotte and her family as motivators! We see the incredible work B+ does and in turn, it has pushed our organization to want to raise more money.

We’ve made so many great memories with Charlotte and look forward to creating even more! Through our connection, we’ve grown closer with her family, allowing us to be invited to events like her birthday party and family and friend fundraisers. We’re grateful for our B+ Hero and love her very much!”

B+ Hero Lilly, Claire and Gamma Phi Beta

“I became involved with UDance Dance Marathon and my sorority, Gamma Phi Beta, during a very rocky part of the pandemic but I was super excited about The B+ Foundation and even more excited to meet GPhi's B+ Hero, Lilly. Everyone in the chapter talked about Lilly like she was a celebrity, and I was super nervous to meet her for the first time. Little did I know that a year later she would be one of my best friends and favorite parts of Gamma Phi. We hung out so much during the day of UDance this past April, which really bonded us! Since this summer began, we've had plenty of ice cream dates, boy gossip, car jam sessions, Texas Roadhouse rolls, and TikTok videos to last a lifetime. Lilly truly is the coolest girl ever, she has such poise and confidence to her at 15 that I still am seeking at 20! She is a fantastic friend, sister, and B+ Hero – I can never enter a store with Stitch products and not think of her!

My favorite part about Lilly is how she challenges me to be a better person. No one would ever be able to guess the challenges she has had to go through based on her sheer amount of confidence. Lilly's attitude after losing two close friends, B+ Hero Victoria and B+ Hero Christian, is what really inspires me. She has truly taken the positive attitude both Victoria and Christian held and inherited it herself. I am so proud of the beautiful young woman that Lilly has become and I feel so grateful to be a part of the chapter that is home to her.”

–Claire, University of Delaware student

B+ Hero Addie, Mary Jane and Alpha Gamma Delta

“When joining UA B+ freshman year, I had no idea the impression it would make on me – especially having the opportunity to meet some of the families and children we’re impacting. It’s really incredible. The first time I met Addie, I was dropping something off at their house and ended up staying an hour just to sit there and eat popsicles, throw a football, and hang out. She shows me how important it is to slow down and enjoy what you do, because that’s what she does every day. ⁣

⁣Addie and her sisters truly fit right in with @uaalphagam. Everyone adores her and loves when she comes to the house. One of my favorite memories is when Addie and her sisters came for an ice cream party at Alpha Gam. We ate ice cream and played corn hole until we couldn’t anymore. Addie brings so much joy when she’s around and I couldn’t be more thankful to B+ for making this match. We love you Addie!” ⁣

–Mary Jane, University of Alabama student

B+ Hero Benny, Marin, Gabriella and Phi Sigma Pi

“As UDance chapter representatives for Phi Sigma Pi, we waited patiently to be connected with a new B+ Hero after our previous one aged out of the program. Finally, over the 2021-2022 winter break, we got the most honoring and exciting news for our organization – we had the chance to be paired with a little boy named Benny. We were so excited, but nervous because neither of us had experienced what it was like to have a B+ Hero. Having said that, after the first zoom session with Benny and his family, all the nervousness had evaporated. Benny was so energetic and willing to engage with us, and his sister is just as adventurous & outgoing! We knew right from the jump that Benny and his family were incredible, and we could not wait to share their light and joy with the rest of the chapter.⁣

We did a zoom event with Benny and his family where we got to let our members meet everyone safely while Benny finished his treatment at the beginning of February. Our brothers and their family all brought items or memorabilia that meant a lot to them, in the form of a show and tell. This was easily the best zoom call we have ever sat in on! After the first meet and greet, we had a few in-person events when it was safe to interact with Benny and our members were over the moon. ⁣

⁣Benny and his family have brought so much fun and joy to our members from playing soccer and racing down sidewalks/slides at the playground, getting beat by Benny every time in a rock paper scissors tournament, and we will now be starting a book club where we will read a book the kiddos want us to read with them and then we will meet on zoom to discuss the story. Seeing Benny and Amelia come out of their shells with our chapter has been an absolute privilege. They are perfect for our organization, and we cannot wait for all the fun memories ahead!”⁣

–Marin and Gabriella, University of Delaware students

B+ Hero Jack, Andrew and Sigma Chi

“Jack is Sigma Chi’s honorary brother, B+ Hero, and friend to everyone in the chapter here at Villanova University.

I had the pleasure of first meeting Jack my freshman year, and it’s been a privilege to have gotten to know him over the past four. My first time meeting him was at a B+ Hero Party, where many of us sat in a room on campus to play video games. We set up a few TVs and PlayStations, and we circled around Jack and Phoenix (his younger brother), taking comfort in simple laughs and conversations. For me, Jack has taught the simple principles friendship: making conversations, sharing new music, laughing, and even answering thought-provoking questions like ‘What are your biggest pet peeves’ or ‘What do you think the best movie series of all-time is?’ It’s the little things with Jack that have meant the most to myself and everyone in my chapter, and we’re all grateful to share in friendship with him.

While Jack may seem reserved at first, anyone who’s gotten to know him will be the first to say that he’s outgoing and funny, bringing a sense of comfort to anyone who starts a conversation. Whether it’s at one of our B+ Hero Parties or the day of NOVAdance itself, the simple act of hanging out and playing video games has been our way of connecting with him. Even through all the obstacles Jack has tackled in his life so far, he has proven and shown all of us what it means to be a hero. He has a positive attitude, is an incredible friend, and most of all, remains a role model for all of us. It’s been an honor for our chapter and NOVAdance to have a bond with Jack, and I know he'll always continue being a hero and friend to us. We love you, Jack!”

–Andrew, Villanova University student

B+ Hero Avie, Elise and the UA B+ Executive Board

“Last summer, I found out that UA B+ was going to be paired with another B+ Hero. The first time I met Avie in person, was at the beginning of the fall semester at our B+ Hero s'mores-making event. As soon as we met, I could see how kind, funny and caring she was. I got to learn about her siblings, pets, and her passion for horses.

This past January, I got the opportunity to be a part of Avie's No More Chemo party and celebrate this amazing milestone with her friends and family. A few weeks ago, the UA B+ community threw Avie another party with our members which included cookie decorating, laughs and lots of dancing to celebrate the end of her treatment. Avie had a smile on her face the entire party.

I have made so many incredible memories with Avie this year, from decorating ornaments for Christmas at my sorority house, slime making, cookie decorating and much more. I am so happy Avie became a B+ Hero this year because she reminds me to never give up and always keep fighting just like she did through her treatment."

–Elise, University of Alabama student

B+ Hero Christos and Alpha Phi Omega

“This year, we at Villanova's Alpha Phi Omega, have had the opportunity to be paired with B+ Hero Christos! The first time we met Christos was on Zoom last year for an APO pasta night. While Zoom calls can be challenging to make meaningful connections, Christos’ positivity and energy shined right through the computer screen. He was very interactive on the zoom and kept calling on random people in the chapter to answer questions like what their favorite noodle shape was or why they were not able to make pasta. When we were able to meet in person this year, Christos kept that same inspiring, positive energy, exemplifying what The B+ Foundation is all about. Whether he was playing corn hole, painting faces, or just throwing a ball around, Christos has taught us how to find joy and make a game out of simple, everyday experiences.

Some of our favorite memories with Christos from the past year are fundraising to gift him a Villanova basketball jersey for his birthday and recently watching him attend his first basketball game. Christos and his family were given courtside seats to enjoy a night out and see the team in action! We met up with them before the game and could tell how excited he was to be there because he could not stop smiling.

We look forward to making more memories with Christos this year as we are less than 50 days away from NOVAdance! On behalf of APO, we are so grateful for the opportunity to be paired with Christos, as he has been such a gift of positivity in our lives.”

–Stephanie and Kevin, Villanova University students

B+ Hero Wyatt and Theta Chi

“To Theta Chi, Wyatt truly embodies what it means to be a B+ Hero. He has brought so much joy and inspiration to our chapter. Wyatt has always been a constant reminder that no matter how many challenges life throws at you, there is always something to be happy about.

Every year, Wyatt’s family holds a rockfish tournament and fundraiser that our chapter takes part in. It is one of our highlighted events of the year where all the brothers get to go on an early-morning fishing trip with his family and friends. Later in the day, they have a fish fry and live auction to raise money for families affected by cancer. We all got to hang out with Wyatt for the day and bond with him. A brother of our chapter shared, ‘Whenever we play tag, Wyatt helps me remember to enjoy the little things with friends and just have fun.’

From events like this to simple Zoom calls, every chance we get to hang out with Wyatt brings his story and challenges that he has faced to life. Through all the obstacles he has faced, Wyatt still remains positive and happy.”

– Nick & Casey, University of Delaware students

B+ Hero Demira, Sammy and UD Cheer

“Last year the University of Delaware Cheer Team had the amazing opportunity to finally get a B+ Hero! The first time we met her we knew she was a part of our cheer family. Demira has been such an impactful part of UD Cheer and has truly made our team complete! We have grown to have such a close bond with her and her family, from her birthday parade to making a dance up for the talent show, we always have so much fun.

One of our team’s favorite memories so far is when Demira and her family came to a UD Football game. We all had so much fun and it was great to see all the new team members meet her in person! Having her on the field with us before kick-off was a highlight of the football game.

Throughout the pandemic, we made sure to meet with her often on Zoom and every time, she made our day 100 times better. Demira is a champion and someone we all look up to – sharing our national championship medals with her just sealed the deal! She has brought so much joy into our lives and we can not wait to make more memories with her. We love her so much and we are beyond thankful to have her on our team!”

– Sammy, University of Delaware student

B+ Hero Dylan, Sarah and Fordham Residence Hall Association

"If you had asked me 2 years ago what Roblox was I simply would have no answer for you. However, today, don’t get me started.

Joining an organization during a virtual year is never easy, especially one that has built such a strong sense of community and care. However, I never expected Roblox to play such a key role in my welcoming to Fordham Dance Marathon and The B+ Foundation. I met Dylan for the first time over Zoom, and I was fortunate enough to be thrown right into a Roblox crash course. So many other members of FDM had fostered great relationships with Dylan and our other B+ Heroes that transferred effortlessly to Zoom, and all I wanted was the same.

After meeting on Zoom, playing Roblox, and watching YouTube, I had hoped that the time I was spending with our B+ Heroes and Dylan was fostering a good relationship. Then I met Dylan in person upon returning to school this fall and any worries I had that Zoom held us back were gone. From slide races, to jungle gym climbing, and even to art a la venom-esque pencil pouches, I felt exactly what I saw my peers experience with Dylan, genuine friendship. Hours of amazing conversation with Dylan and his mom ended with planning a trip to venture over to his neighborhood for a day of good food, and I can’t wait."

– Sarah, Fordham University