During a football game at William Byrd High School vs. Hidden Valley High School on September 5, 2025, the community came together and wore yellow to support Cam’s purpose.
Camden Thepsimuong, a student at William Byrd High School, is battling stage 4 bone cancer, also known as Osteosarcoma. What doctors originally thought to be a meniscus tear turned out to be something far worse. Since his diagnosis, the local community has offered its support to Cam and his family through a variety of fundraisers, benefits, and school events, such as this football game.
The original theme for the Friday night game was “Party in the USA,” but it was changed to yellow, the color associated with bone cancer. The shift was a conscious act of solidarity. “I thought the theme change was a really positive decision,” Isabella Jentzsch (11). “It changed the theme into something more meaningful.” The stands became a sea of yellow, a visible display of the community’s support for Cam’s ongoing battle.
For some students, this Friday night game was simply a social gathering, but for others, particularly those close to Cam and his family, it held a much deeper meaning. The event connected with individuals in the community who had experienced cancer, either personally or through loved ones, symbolizing unity and hope.
According to Mrs. Preston, head of the school’s Cancer Awareness Club, Cam’s fight puts the club’s work into sharp focus. “Cam’s purpose validates why we do this work,” she explained. “It shows our students that cancer awareness isn’t just about statistics or fundraising goals, but about standing with real people in our community who are facing one of life’s greatest challenges.” She added that Cam’s fight has become a powerful reminder of why every awareness event matters. “Behind every cancer diagnosis is a person, a family, and a community that needs to know they’re not alone.”
The bright yellow crowd at the William Byrd High School football game was more than just a changed theme. It was a tangible representation of a community coming together. On a night that proved how strongly they care for one another, the students and families showed that they will stand together even when times are tough.
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