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5-year-old inspires Davidson community through pennies and patients initiative

So far the school has raised about $70,000 over the last eight years. This year they have almost raised $10,000. Sutton has collected almost $500 of that, all at the age of five!

DAVIDSON, N.C. -- He may be young, but a local 5-year old’s big heart is inspiring his whole school one penny at a time. Every penny raised goes to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of North Carolina.

A penny by itself doesn't do much, but for Sutton Williams, it’s one cent closer to a cure. “I'm collecting money for cancer research,” Sutton told NBC Charlotte. “I want to help them get rid of it."

Sutton got the idea to raise money after a school assembly. His parents helped him put together this video that’s gained quite a bit of Facebook attention.

“You don't have to be a certain age to make a difference, and for him to be out there bringing awareness and money to the cause. It's humbling to see that. Proud dad? Absolutely," said Sutton’s dad Joe.

The school leader of Pennies for Patients at Davidson Elementary is Gerry Smith. He too is inspired by this five year old. "I was completely blown away,” Gerry said.

The fifth graders help the school counselor collect the money from each classroom’s box every day. So far the school has raised about $70,000 over the last eight years. This year they have almost raised $10,000. Sutton has collected almost $500 of that, all at the age of five!

There’s a patient that hit close to home for the students. A basketball player at Davidson College is fighting Leukemia right now. Gerry says, she is expected back on the court soon though.

A little boy building a better future for those in his community, showing us all that a little bit goes a long way.

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