Staff Report
The Zachary Tucker H.E.R.O. Award is given to one fifth grade student at Lithia Springs Elementary School who displays the characteristics H – happy attitude, E – excellent student, R – respected friend, O – outstanding athlete. These are the characteristics displayed by Zach Tucker, who was a Lithia Springs student who courageously battled a cancerous brain tumor for 10 months during his third grade year in the 2005-2006 school year.
Lithia teachers, staff and fellow students nominate students that meet these qualifications. This year the following five students were nominated Cameron Valdez, Courtney Carter, Dylan Mudd, James Williams and Addy Benz.
The student selected for the award was Addy Benz. She was described as kind and helpful to others, always willing to do what she is asked. She is a top student, respectful to adults and is everyone’s friend. It was also noted she always has a smile on her face. “Addy is very deserving of this award. She received a number of nominations which indicated to us she is a true hero,” said Sherry Tucker, Zach’s mom. “This award is very special to us and we are thrilled to carry on Zach’s legacy in this manner.”
Addy’s name was added to the HERO plaque displayed at the school. She was the eighth recipient of the award.
The Giving Hope Through Faith Foundation grew from lessons sent from God through a journey traveled by little eight-year-old Zach. It is a non-profit organization that provides at least $100 in grocery, gas or discount store gift cards once a month for a year to Tampa Bay-area families that have a member undergoing treatment for cancer. Along with these cards, the foundation provides uplifting messages sharing God’s promises. The Giving Hope Through Faith Foundation is solely supported by contributions from individuals, businesses and churches. Each donation enables it to grow closer to supporting more families. The foundation requires $1,500 to fund one family for an entire year. For more information, visit givinghopethrough faith.org/index.html.
