Teen fights cancer, helps good cause

CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (WIVB) - A teenager is fighting cancer, but wants to give back and help out. Cheektowaga High School Senior Matthew Stroud was diagnosed with leukemia in 2010 and he had to get a bone marrow transplant from his six-year-old sister. His cancer came back last spring, and while he fights it he is also giving back.

Wednesday he is planning to shave off all of his hair for a program called “Goin’ Bald for Bucks.” The proceeds benefit cancer research and programs at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. At his young age, Stroud is a survivor.

In 2010 he was diagnosed with a rare type of leukemia for children and needed a bone marrow transplant. His sister Jenna, who was six at the time, gave hope to Matt and his family, she donated her bone marrow.

“I wasn't surprised. She's always kind of been there for our family. I figured if it was going to be anyone it would be her,” Matthew said back in 2010.

Also in 2010, Jenna said, “I'm going to have a blood test on my hip, so I'm giving it to him. Helping get the cancer away.”:

Stroud’s mother Jodi says the teen’s cancer came back last spring. He just finished six months of chemotherapy and they hope the cancer is gone. In the meantime, Stroud has mustered up enough energy to help others by Goin’ Bald for Bucks.