Ex-coach continues cancer fight at Plainview-Old Bethpage homecoming

Stacy Brennan still exudes the enthusiastic personality one would associate with a cheerleading coach.  

Her spirit shone brightly during Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School’s homecoming football game last Saturday. As any good coach would, she’s showing people how to overcome adversity.

During the game, Kennedy varsity cheerleaders donned pink socks and bows, and used pink pom poms in support of former assistant varsity cheerleading coach Brennan as she battles stage four breast cancer.

The mother of three and JFK alumni was first diagnosed with stage two breast cancer in 2007 and underwent more than six months of surgeries and treatments. Then, in 2012, she was diagnosed with a recurrence -- this time stage four metastatic breast cancer.

But she continues to fight the disease, and the school has turned homecoming week into an opportunity to raise funds for Stacy’s Warriors, the non-profit charity Brennan started in 2010 that raises money for the American Cancer Society and Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

“The school has been unbelievable,” said Brennan, raving about their support.

JFK’s DECA club, led by teacher Michael Ambury, spearheads the fundraisers which will run during the week.

SEE PHOTOSPhotos: High school homecomings across LI

JFK principal James Murray, who has known Brennan and her family for almost 15 years, said that having students fundraise provides them with a chance to “show support for the Brennan family and to anybody else dealing with cancer in their lives.”

Students also participate in fundraising by selling pink bracelets, keychains and T-shirts, and the school’s Youth Against Cancer Club spreads awareness about the struggles of the disease.

Said Murray, “Anything we can do to support her cause and fight against breast cancer, we will do.”