My dad passed away from cancer last year, and someone mentioned there might be scholarships for kids who've lost a parent this way. Do these scholarships exist, and how can I apply?
I'm really sorry to hear about your dad—I know that has to be really tough. You're right in thinking that there are some scholarships specifically tailored to students who have lost a parent to cancer.
One organization that comes to mind is the MaryEllen Locher Foundation. They offer scholarships to children of parents who have or had cancer, with attention to those who have lost a parent.
Another resource is Cancer for College. It specifically aids cancer survivors and their families, including the children of cancer survivors or victims, by providing college scholarships.
Also, consider checking out The Moyer Foundation's Resource Center. It lists many scholarships available to students who’ve experienced the death or serious illness of a parent.
When applying, you'll need to provide information about your circumstances, typically a written narrative of what you’ve been through, how it’s affected your life, and why you think you’re a good fit for the scholarship. You'll also need to show the regular stuff, like academic achievements, extracurriculars, and goals for your college education.
Don't forget to look for local scholarships too—sometimes foundations, hospitals, or local businesses offer scholarships for students who have lost a parent to cancer.
Best of luck as you navigate this process, and I’m really sorry for your loss.
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