When Kate Elizabeth Bowling was 15 years old, she received a diagnosis that was tantamount to a death sentence.

Stage IV pancreatic cancer had spread to her liver. The doctors told the teen from Medina, OH that she didn’t have long to live.

But Kate wasn’t about to accept the prognosis. She had dreams – to go to college and become a crime scene investigator. She was going to fight for her future – and she has.

Kate Bowling, scholarship winner

Three years later, after 25 chemotherapy treatments, four rounds of radiation and various surgeries, Kate has defied the odds and is making her dream a reality, studying forensic psychology at The University of Akron in Ohio. “I have a few tumors left that doctors believe can be removed with surgery,” she said.

Kate’s story deeply moved the team at Mableton, GA-based Boxercraft (asi/41325). That’s why the promotional apparel supplier has made Kate the recipient of its 2019 Boxercraft Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer Scholarship. The $3,000 award will help Kate pay for the education she has battled so bravely to receive, the supplier said.

“We applaud Kate’s accomplishments and her ability to overcome obstacles in pursuit of her dreams. Her story is inspiring and her determination even more so,” said Boxercraft CEO Shelley Foland.

Boxercraft created the scholarship in 2017 to honor the memory of Tod Rastello, a former Boxercraft vice president of sales. He passed away in 2016 from pancreatic cancer. The scholarship is open to patients, survivors and any immediate family member whose life has been impacted by a loved one’s battle with the disease.

Over the last three years, Boxercraft has awarded $7,000 in scholarships. A committee consisting of Boxercraft staff and the Rastello family reviews applications and essays submitted by candidates for the scholarship to select a recipient. “We felt it would be extra special for Tod’s family to be involved in the selection process,” said Foland.

With each applicant’s story so compelling, Boxercraft said it’s difficult to choose a winner. Personal and financial hardships are common among the applicants. “All the applicants are worthy,” said Tammy Rastello, wife of the late Tod Rastello.

Past applicants not selected for the award are encouraged to reapply each year. The next deadline to apply for the Boxercraft Fight Against Pancreatic Cancer Scholarship is July 2020.

Founded in 1985, Boxercraft is a manufacturer, distributor and marketer of blank wholesale apparel and accessories. From everyday basics to unique trends, Boxercraft offers an assortment of collegiate-inspired styles, sporty-chic silhouettes and relaxed, casual wear for women, men and kids.