UPDATE: Fundraiser Tuesday For Cancer-Stricken Barnegat High School Graduate

Members of the Barnegat High School Interact Team and Art Alliance are banding together to help BHS graduate who is seriously ill.

The group is holding an alumni walk-a-thon from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday at the high school track. They are hoping raise money for Samantha Franco, who is fighting Stage 4 Synovial Sarcoma, said student Tori Sullivan - a senior and editor of the school paper "The Roar" - who is helping to organize the event.

"We are looking to reach out to the alumni of Barnegat High School and to spread word of this event," Sullivan said. "The minimum cost is $5, but larger donations are greatly appreciated."

With the help of her suister, Franco has raised more than $50,000 online to help cover the costs of her treatments, which aren't covered by insurance (http://www.gofundme.com/4re14s).

Franco has decided not to undergo chemotherapy and radiation and instead is opting for a more holistic approach, including eating only organic foods, Sullivan said.

Franco - who lives with her family in Barnegat - recently returned from Mexico for treatment, Sullivan said.

"The cost to go to Mexico was very expensive," she said.

Donations can be dropped off at the high school on Bengal Boulevard, in care of Linda Schuler, the yearbook adviser, or at the time of the event.

"I think this is a great opportunity for people to come back and support an alumnus in need," Sullivan said.