California teen honors late father, raises record $1.23 million for blood cancer
Sixteen-year-old Orion Greene raised over $1.23 million for blood cancer research in honor of his late father. The campaign, known as the 'Greene Goblins,' set a record for the Student Visionaries of the Year program.
Why it matters
The story showcases the impact of youth-led philanthropy and community-driven efforts in medical research funding.
Some legacies are counted in wealth or in achievement. Others are motivated by compassion, resilience and a determination to ensure no other family ever experiences the same heartbreak. For 16-year-old Orion Greene of San Rafael, Calif., his father's death became the impetus for a remarkable mission. In a record-shattering fundraising effort, the high school student rallied classmates, volunteers, family members and supporters over seven weeks, raising $1,234,579 to support blood cancer research, patient support and advocacy. His work has now won him the title of 2026 National Student Visionary of the Year from Blood Cancer Unit, states Blood Cancer United's official report.
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