Hammond's American Cancer Society work inspired by loss of his father

At the age of 16, Brandon Hammond became the man of the house taking care of his twin sister and mother. Hammond’s father, Larry Hammond, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2001 and in 2007, he was diagnosed with colon cancer. Complications during a surgery ended Larry’s life and changed Hammond’s forever.

“After he passed away it was hard because losing a parent at 16 is hard for anybody,” Hammond said.

Hammond pressed forward and graduated from Smith-Cotton High School. He is now a freshman at State Fair Community College majoring in business management.

The death of his father and a streak of cancer that has touched many members of his family made Hammond passionate about helping others who are dealing with cancer.

Hammond is a full-time student who volunteers with the American Cancer Society. This year, Hammond is serving as the luminary chair for the cancer society’s Relay For Life.

“It’s important to me because I don’t think somebody should have to go through that. Watching someone going though chemo and radiation is very hard. That’s why I have such a passion for it,” Hammond said.

As the luminary chair, Hammond is responsible for providing information and supplies for people wanting to honor a loved one who has been touched by cancer.

“It’s getting the word out there about it that cancer patients can go to these places and have support behind them,” Hammond said.

At home, Hammond helps his mother do the laundry, cook dinner and take care of the lawn. Hammond’s mother, Sharon Hammond, is a 14-year survivor of thyroid cancer. Last January, Sharon was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Hammond will make trips to the grocery store if Sharon is not feeling well and still comforts his twin sister, Reva, when she is feeling down.

“I try to make it as easy as possible for her,” Hammond said.

Candie Fisher, of Shawnee, Kan., is Hammond’s aunt.

“He’s selfless,” Fisher said. “He always looks out for everybody else and does what he can for family and friends.”
Fisher said Hammond has had to grow up fast, but he never gets upset about his situation.

“If I am down, I can call him and he can just make me laugh, Fisher said.

Hammond has not decided about what he will do after State Fair Community College, but he may make a trip to culinary school.

“I feel comfortable in the kitchen,” Hammond said. “I like to bake, but I’m big on Italian food.”

Even though Hammond’s family has a history of cancer, he keeps a positive outlook and looks forward to the future.

“Like I tell my mom, I’m not worried about it. If it happens it happens. I live for today and dream for tomorrow,” Hammond said.