Boy wants to strike out cancer

There’s a lot on the line — and in the lane — for eight-year-old Jaden Babiuk.

The Ă©cole Marie Poburan student hopes to light up every alley at the St. Albert Bowling Centre over the next two months to raise a whopping $15,000 for charity.

Strikes for Cancer is now in its third year, and for young Babiuk, the headpin is, was and always will be the ‘big C.’ Cancer recently claimed his grandfather and that has only spurred him to strive for greater fundraising success, and he has the support of his school to back him up, too.

“The principal might announce it in front of the whole school,” Babiuk said, wondering if he’ll become a kind of class hero. “I guess.”

The unstoppable boy decided to start up the event in 2009 after learning a neighbour was diagnosed with the disease. He called on businesses for support and asked friends to sign up. In the first two years, he helped raise about $20,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society.

This year, he wants to up the ante and throw a $15,000 strike for the Cross Cancer Institute.

Considering a group of firefighters can camp out on a rooftop and rake in $35,000, he figures he should have no problem — at least if he fundraises like he bowls.

“My high score is 231!”

According to mom Lisa, her enthusiastic son can’t be stopped. Once he gets an idea in his head, his mind is set and it’s only a matter of time before he gets the job done, she said.

The entire family had no choice but to become the primary support team. While Lisa and husband Marvin help with promotions and organizations, younger brother Ryan will set up a slushee stand during the event.

“It’s a family event. Year after year it’ll build,” Lisa said, confident that Strikes will continue on well into the future. “St. Albert is very supportive.”

At this stage in the game, the Babiuks hope more businesses show their support. Sponsorships are available at $125 per lane and there is always more room for prize donors.

A prize of a free iPad is available to participants who raise $1,000 or more.