Students encouraging a teacher battling cancer

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- One Fresno Unified school turned pink for a special teacher and a unique cause.

Teacher Nancy Lind may be battling cancer, but that didn't stop her from cheering on students participating in Jackson Elementary School's annual jog a thon.

"I'm feeling great," said Lind. "This is really exciting to see all the kids and all the support here."

The veteran teacher soaked up every moment with her kids and their families, who decided to go pink in honor of her fight. Lind was diagnosed with breast cancer before the school year and spent five weeks teaching before she had to leave the classroom for her health.

Lind said, "I'm just very fortunate that I have a great boss, I have a lot of good friends and supportive staff here and the community."

The school has rallied behind Lind, sending cards and buying these pink shirts to support her and raise money for breast cancer research.

Jackson Elementary School Principal Thomas Fuentes said, "We want to make sure that she knows that we love her and she's cared for and as she goes through this struggle, that she is not alone."

Lind says she's been honest and optimistic about her battle, but hopes the students learn a greater lesson.

"Cancer touches everyone's life at some time and that they can see I'm doing okay and I'm a survivor," said Lind. "I am going to make it. And I can't wait to get back to school to be with them."

And surrounded by a sea of students and staff, their love is giving her more strength than they can imagine.

The principal estimates they've raised a couple hundred dollars for the Susan G Komen Foundation, but out of this even more support for their beloved teacher and a greater awareness of breast cancer.