Student in long battle with brain cancer an inspiration to community

On Oct. 7, the Exeter High School volleyball team hosted Grey Out Night in honor and support of sophomore Blazi Lowe.

“Blazi is an inspiration not only to our volleyball team and school, but to the entire community,” said Stephanie Crumpler, Lady Tigers volleyball coach.

This year, the Exeter volleyball team sold bracelets and T-shirts to raise funds for Lowe’s ongoing battle. She was diagnosed with brain cancer as a pre-kindergarten student at Exeter.

“Blazi is an awesome individual that has made a ton of impact on students, staff and her community,” said Ashley Fly, Exeter High School principal. “She is one of the most kind-hearted students we have but can be very sassy. Her resilience and fight has shown so many people you can fight through adversity no matter what comes your way.”

Fly had an opportunity to speak to the crowd during Grey

Where: Exeter High School volleyball game

For: Sophomore Blazi Lowe Why: Lowe was diagnosed with brain cancer as a pre-kindergarten student at Exeter Out Night.

“We wanted our community and friends from a local school to know we support Blazi in this fight,” Fly said. “One of the main things I hit on was her fight is our fight, and we stand beside her through all of this to win the fight with cancer.”

Each year, the Lady Tigers volleyball team hosts a special cancer awareness night. A different individual or organization is selected by the players for each annual event.

“The girls love Blazi and have followed her journey since her diagnosis, making her very special to each of them,” Crumpler said. “She began fighting this disease at such a young age, and she continues to show grit and determination. She is a constant reminder that when we are faced with challenges — big or small — we must find the determination and willpower to keep going.”

Fly said the Grey Out Night was well-attended by the community.

“An event like this, you see community support from everyone, and everyone has one common goal — show Blazi we are supporting her and fighting with her,” Fly said. “Many of her classmates showed up and were excited she was able to make it to the event.”

Lowe demonstrated her continued resilience by sitting in an honorary spot on the Lady Tigers bench throughout the Grey Out Night event.