Stanley's Dream Fund Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Chester County, Pennsylvania

Purpose: Annual scholarships awarded to graduating Chester County high school students in honor of Stanley Austin Edwards, who passed away from brain cancer in 2002 at age 14. Stanley dreamed of attending Notre Dame University. To date, approximately 38 scholarships totaling over $64,000 have been awarded.

Background: Stanley was diagnosed with brain cancer in 7th grade (age 12) while at Henderson High School. After surgery to remove the tumor, he developed learning disabilities and paralysis in his right arm. Despite his illness, Stanley maintained his wit, humor, hope, faith, strength, dignity, and zest for life. His legacy is kept alive through scholarships and grants awarded in his name.

Award Type: Scholarships for promising students

Additional Support: The Stanley's Dream Fund also awards grants ($5,000+) to fund childhood brain cancer research. To date, over 12 gifts totaling $85,000+ have been awarded to Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (C.H.O.P.), including a 2017 grant of $10,000 to C.H.O.P.'s Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care with a room named in Stanley's honor.