The Seven Lakes HS Cancer Research Society is the first Katy ISD student-led cancer research non-profit, founded in 2025 and dedicated to inspiring the next generation of cancer researchers. Through our collaboration with MD Anderson & Emory researchers, we provide research opportunities and support our members' research aspirations.
Why we started.
Often, when we think of cancer research, we imagine scientists working in labs and running experiments on mice. But at its core, cancer research is about one thing: reducing the suffering experienced by millions of families around the world.
My story begins in August 2021, when my family received a call from my grandfather informing us that he had been diagnosed with Stage IV prostate cancer that had metastasized to his bones. At the time, I was only 12 years old and knew very little about cancer. I assumed everything would be fine — that he would receive treatment and recover. As the years passed and I began to understand the disease that was slowly taking his life, I realized there would be no cure for him. Instead, I learned to appreciate the time I had left with him. Every time a new clinical trial opened for his specific cancer, our family hoped it would be the breakthrough that could save his life. Unfortunately, in March 2024, my grandfather passed away.
When I entered high school, one of my biggest goals was to inspire other students to pursue careers in oncology and cancer research. Through the SLHS Cancer Research Society, I hope to provide opportunities for students to explore cancer research and develop the skills used by researchers in the real world — whether that means cold-emailing mentors, reading published literature, analyzing public datasets, or conducting independent research.
Our motto, "Inspiring the Next Generation of Cancer Researchers," was inspired by our attendance at the AACR Annual Meeting in 2026. There, we witnessed the human side of research: the patients, families, physicians, and scientists whose lives are connected through the fight against cancer. Our mission is simple: to spread awareness, educate our peers, and inspire the next generation of cancer researchers.
"The power of research can determine whether a patient lives or dies."
What we've built so far.
19 Meetings
2 Labs
6 collaborations
501(c)(3) Registered Non-Profit
1st Katy ISD Cancer Org
3 Mentors Affiliated
80+ Members
12 OncoLegacy Journals
Whether you want to do research, run a lab, write for the journal, or help with outreach — there's a place for you here.
