Kara McMurray (right) and Maya Jones set up a table in Athens to receive donations in their own fight against cancer. Fifth grader Kara McMurray has been affected by the pain of cancer in a number of ways and she had taken it upon herself to make a difference for those who suffer from it. On her own and with the help of some friends along the way, Kara exceeded her goal in time for the American Cancer Society Relay for

Life earlier this month, and she has already extended her goal rather than take a break from the fight.

Kara has made all her own signs, written poetry, and worked her table as she continues to give out colorcoded ribbons in exchange for donations to cancer research.

"You never though it could happen to you or a loved one," Kara says in her prepared materials, "But when it does, everything changes. Winter comes faster and summer fades away. Oh, I hate cancer's pain."

Kara's crusade got its start through family members who have cancer or that have lost their lives to cancer and the list is part of her presentation.

"I was inspired to help cancer patients by my adopted grandfather Richard Davis who has cancer and fighting a long hard battle," she explained. "I lost my aunt, Tina Polk Lynch, to cancer when she was only 41 years old. She was very sick for a long time."

Good friend Sharkeia Wright (left) joined Kara McMurray as she continued her fund-raising efforts at this month's ACS Relay for Life. Others in her family that have added to her inspiration include:

My great-great uncle Benny Miller, age 68.

My great-great aunt Ida Lou Sims, age 70.

My third cousin Buddy Harper, age 63.

My third cousin Gean Almon who lost his life to cancer.

My third cousin's wife Tiny Almon.

My great-great uncle Buck Mask lost his life at age 71.

"Cancer is a deadly disease and kills a lot of people. We have to stand up an make a difference," Kara said. "Let's fight for the right to live. Every penny counts."

Kara is the daughter of Tonya and Ricky Haralson of Rayle. She has raised over $300.00 so far and her new goal is $500.00.