Ben Franklin school rallies around brothers who lost mom to breast cancer

MILWAUKEE -- Two brothers at a Menomonee Falls elementary school lost their mom to breast cancer last month. On Friday, October 23rd the entire school rallied around the boys and their family, and quite literally, came together in a massive show of support.

Ben Franklin Elementary School

Rounding up 530 elementary school kids is a tough job. But Ben Franklin school staff and parents have a vision -- all for a special woman.

"A very strong  fighter, tough woman, great mom," said Todd Karpinski.

"She was just an amazing person, she never missed a moment," said Julie's friend and neighbor Sarah Heringer.

The shirts are in memory of Julie Karpinski. She fought breast cancer for six years before passing away on September 7th. 'Team Fight Like a Girl' was Julie's team name in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

Ben Franklin school raised $2,500 to donate to the foundation in Julie's memory.

"We are very much a family here at Ben Franklin, and when our family needs support, we offer it," said Ben Franklin principal Cassie Martin.

In the crowd are Julie's sons, Lucas and Elijah.

Ben Franklin Elementary School

"You try to prepare as much as you can and help the kids along the way, in the end it is all about the support from friends and family," said Todd Karpinski.

Where each child lines up is important -- they're making a pink ribbon. It's to bring attention to the need for screenings and research for a cure.

The photo the students took today wearing these shirts will either be made into a postcard or a big poster to be hung inside the school.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you would like to make a donation in Julie's memory, her family asks that you donate to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.