Cancer...Most people know someone who's had it, or been effected by the disease. But not everyone sees the affects of cancer up close.

There is a group of kids who have and they are now jumping in to help a friend.

With every back flip, aerial and full twist... these kids are flipping for a friend.

"Lexie is one of the most energetic girls I know. She's like a spit fire. She's a lot of fun," said 11-year-old Ellie Vititow.

"This week, our tumbling classes are dedicated to Lexi Helfrich," said Jennifer Vititow, D&D Owner.

8–year–old Lexi Helfrich is battling cancer for a second time.

"When she came to our studio she was in remission," said Jennifer Vititow.

Lexi first fought the disease as a two year–old. And although, the cancer is back, she's not battling it alone. Her friends and fellow tumblers are participating in 'D & D Flips for Saint Jude Week.'

"We just had fun days for all the kids, so they can show their support for Lexie and Saint Jude. We want to stay strong for her," said 18-year old Abby Huerta.

This week, the students have raised more than three thousand dollars for the Saint Jude Runners, for every donation, the students received a hair bow, tee shirt and love for Lexie Bracelet.

"She's such a positive person. She has so much energy. How we met her... We always saw her dancing in the hallway, or hanging on the bars, running around everywhere. She was always trying to imitate our dances. We just got to know here. It's hard to see her with cancer, but we just hope she gets better," said 17-year old Philip Durkee.

"I've seen her in her best days and her worst days. She's a great girl. We wanted to help her. She's just one of the those girls you'd want to see around and you'd want your kids to be around. She's just a great girl," said Abby.

And the little girl who touches so many, visited her classmates during the last day of their Saint Jude week.

"Love for Lexie, Love for Lexie."

With a smile and hug brave little Lexie...is surrounded by her fellow classmates who are all deeply affected by the visit and her love.

"I love you Lexie."

D & D Flips for St. Jude raised more than three–thousand dollars.
The financial support goes to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the local Midwest affiliate to help kids like Lexi who are battling cancer.

Don't forget to watch the St. Jude telethon right here on WEEK–TV on Saturday August 2nd.