Sixth grader baking to help find a cure for cancer
By Sean Sweeney Journal Correspondent

Nicholas Roger's works behind the table at the bake sale on Saturday, Jan. 6, at Overlook Middle School. Ryan organized to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Courtesy Photo

In olden times (read: the late 1980s), bake sales were commonly used as school fundraisers for ski trips, trips to the zoo or just a way to fill the coffers of a particular class. But Nicholas Roger, 11, of Ashburnham, has completely revolutionized the bake sale, 2007 style.

His bake sale this past Saturday morning at Overlook Middle School was for a more important cause than buying pencils or pens or making sure his class has enough paper for the rest of the school year.

He wants to find a cure for cancer.

With the aid of his parents, the sixth grader organized a bake sale to benefit the American Cancer Society. The sale, held in conjunction with the opening day of the Ashburnham Area Basketball League, was a success: he raised nearly $200.

"I think it went really good," Nicholas said this past Sunday afternoon. "(Raising $200) is pretty good for a bake sale."

According to James Roger, Nicholas' father, his son wanted to do something special to honor the memory of his grandfather, Richard Alberts of Orleans, who passed away from cancer in June 2006, as well as raise money to find a cure for the disease.

"We talked about things like participating in the Relay for Life and other events, but he felt strongly about doing something on his own," the elder Roger said. "He was affected by his grandpa passing, so this is an amazing outlet for him. He's an amazing kid, and he's very caring."

He then said it was a matter of contacting the AABL, the administration of Overlook Middle School and the American Cancer Society for permission and support for the endeavor. Once it was approved, it was just a matter of getting the tasty confections to sell.

"Nicholas contacted family, friends, and teachers and asked them if they were willing to bake items for the sale. They have all been very supportive," Roger said.

Roger, who works at Fitchburg State College, said the conference table in his office was half-full with baked goodies the day prior to the event, and eventually filled up two tables during the bake sale.

"I know a lot of people like baked goods," Nicholas said, "and I knew I could get a lot of people to help. If I can, I'd really enjoy doing another project for the Cancer Society."

Nicolas' mom, Heather, helped run the event.