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COLUMBIA (WACH)-What could you accomplish if given a little encouragment? How about overcoming cancer? Brightening the lives of thousands?

Helen Clay can answer yes to both.

At 11 years-old Helen was diagnosed with cancer and underwent a nine hour life saving surgery.

While in the hospital Halen remembers a young boy bringing her toys and how much joy they brought her while she was fighting for her life.

In early 2010, Helen established the Helen’s Hugs fund with a goal of building teddy bears year-round for children at the Palmetto Health Children’s Hospital in Columbia. 

Since then, Helen has raised almost $27,000 from family, friends and local businesses, allowing her to build more than 1,000 bears.  These bears have been delivered to patients of the Children’s Hospital

Helen Clay is currently a junior, attends Heathwood Episcopal School and is on the Talk About Giving Advisory Board.

She has received numerous awards for her generosity, including a Best of Philanthropy Award from Central Carolina Community Foundation and the Prudential Spirit of Community Award.