September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and we are honored to work with our extraordinary friend Megan Bugg for the 3rd year in a row. When we [Ivory Ella Team] first met Megan at age 16, we were immediately blown away by her passion for life, her dynamic voice and unassuming resilience. At age 16, her voice broke barriers.
Megan, now 18 years old, has stage 4 alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cancer and was diagnosed when she was just 13 years old. She has personally been fighting and advocating for childhood cancer since December 26, 2014.
January 3, 2015, marked the day that Megan officially began her battle with cancer and the day that she chose to FIGHT. Since then she has battled against four relapses, over 100 weeks of chemotherapy, over 130 radiation treatments, and three surgeries.
January 12, 2015 -
“At about 10 p.m., everyone went home and Megan started to pack her things for the battle she is about to begin…AND WIN!!! A touching moment took place right before she went to sleep. She called both my wife and I into her room, because she said she needed to talk to us. She told us both, "when we are at the hospital, please don't cry." I believe that was her way of telling us that she is ready for the fight, and that she is prepared to win. She doesn’t see any reason to be sad, because she knows she is going to beat this!!! She is really an amazing young lady, who is so much tougher than any of us gave her credit for.” -The Journey of Megan Bugg, as told by her father
In year one of working with Megan we quickly realized that full transparency was her main objective. She is candid, detailed and unapologetic when it comes to cancer and from the start it was important that that translated into her collection designs. Now, after 3 years of working together, Megan and our Lead Designer, Lauren, have a great understanding for one another — Megan always comes with a clear vision and Lauren brings it to life.
This year's collection will feature a short sleeve t-shirt, a long sleeve t-shirt and a Tervis Tumbler.
“I’m so excited for this years childhood cancer launch! It is our 3rd collection and I am ready to see everyone supporting our kids! Childhood cancer still receives only 4% of all federal funding for cancer research. This lead to me choosing the “more than 4” design for this year because kids deserve way more than 4%! Last year we raised an incredible amount of $15,000 for childhood cancer research. My goal is for everyone to know what “more than 4” means and to raise even more awareness with this shirt than the past years. Together we can end childhood cancer!"
MORE THAN FOUR is not who Megan is, but the three words that stand for a powerful four are a pivotal part of her story. Not only is she dedicated to fighting her own battle, but serves as a pillar for all kids alike.
Currently, less than 4% of federal dollars for cancer research are dedicated to researching cures for childhood cancer. Megan is a strong proponent for changing this percentage because kids simply deserve MORE.
Last year, with your help, we were able to donate $15k to Dr. Walterhouse’s (Megan’s Doctor) research at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. This year, we want to make an even bigger impact in support of Megan and her journey.
Together, with Megan and her family, it is our hope that we continue to grow Team Megan and fight for all children that are dealing with this unforgivable disease.
This September, don’t cry or feel sorry for Megan, but instead learn from her message and spread the word. Together, let's get MORE THAN FOUR and put a stop childhood cancer.
This Limited Edition collection drops TOMORROW, 8/29.