Alice Moody – $5,000 Scholarship Recipient

Her Story

Donald Perlman, MD Memorial Scholarship Recipient: Kaitlyn Pugh

The 2024 recipient of this $5,000 scholarship award is Kaitlyn Pugh. Kaitlyn is from Saugus, attends Saugus High School, and has a 4.15 GPA. Kaitlyn plays Softball, Soccer and Basketball. She also works at Dick’s Sporting Goods and is a math tutor and teacher’s assistant.

Kaitlyn said “she never knew life without cancer.” Her dad was diagnosed with a Glioblastoma brain tumor when she was a baby. He underwent 3 craniotomies, 18 years of on-and-off chemo and 2 rounds of radiation. Despite all that, he never missed one of her softball games.

Her mom told Kaitlyn, “she was the greatest blessing in his story.” And through it all, he demonstrated to everyone what it means to be resilient regardless of the circumstances, to persevere through all adversity and to have fun along the way.

In March of this year, his tumors were progressing, and there were no further treatment options. He was being cared for at home with the help of hospice. Kaitlyn said “I’m losing my hero, but the impact he’s had on me, will be with me the rest of my life.”

Her teacher wrote “I have no doubt that Kaitlyn will go on to achieve her highest aspirations throughout her future. She is nothing but respectful, thoughtful, confident and focused on her pursuits. These qualities make her a model student that any program would be proud to have represent their school. Kaitlyn’s presence will certainly be missed at Saugus High School as she spread joy among staff as well as her peers.”

Sadly, her dad passed away last month.

But, Kaitlyn will be attending Endicott College in the fall, pursuing math and teaching.