Student Spotlight: Tamar Handis

Running is important to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School Cross Country captain Tamar Handis. But it’s even more important when she can use her passion to help sick children.

On December 6, Tamar took part in the St. Jude Memphis Marathon® Weekend, completing the 13.1-mile half marathon and bringing in $650 for St. Jude’s Hospital for Children.

“It’s rewarding because running is already a big part of my life, so being able to connect it to supporting St. Jude’s makes it feel even more worthwhile,” she said. “It’s a way for me to contribute to a cause I care about while doing something I genuinely enjoy.”

The PWHS senior was inspired to help children battling pediatric cancer by watching her uncle, a pediatric oncologist, and how he cares for his patients. Her sister’s participation in fundraisers for St. Jude’s through her sorority brought the children’s hospital to her attention. 

“At St. Jude’s, families never receive a bill for care, housing, or meals, which removes an enormous amount of stress during a time when they should be able to focus solely on their child,” she said.

Her fundraising efforts also included a bake sale at JFK Park during soccer season in the fall with volunteers and baked goods thanks to members of the National Honor Society. 

Giving back to the community is a way Tamar can demonstrate leadership to the Cross Country team in the off season. “I have also enjoyed watching the team grow through all of my years of high school,” she said. “It's a sport I have always loved, so watching other people love it too has made me so happy.”