STURGIS, MI- The principal at Congress Elementary School sprung into action when she heard one of her first grade students was being bullied. Lily Strang has a rare genetic disease called Fanconi anemia. She was born without thumbs and is smaller than the other students her age.
Friday morning, school Principal Mrs. Teresa Belote read a book to the entire school that she and Lily wrote together. ‘A Book About Me (and Fanconi Anemia)’ is aimed at teaching the other students about Lily’s differences along with a lesson in acceptance.
Not a peep could be heard as the students listened to the story, taking in the message. Lily hopes it will answer their questions and stop the bullying.
Lily’s family is hosting two fundraisers raising money for the Fanconi Anemia Research Fund. In April, 1,000 Cranes for Lily begins. On May 2nd, Applebee’s in Sturgis is donating 10 percent of your bill to the cause and the wait staff will be donating tips.
