Marion Cunningham 
Pioneers for Peace leader needs public support. One of the nation’s best-known activists against gun violence is up against a new opponent: cancer. Weusi Olusola, president of Pioneers for Peace, has been diagnosed with Stage 4 of the illness and told that he has six months to live. Known throughout the nation among urban peace activists, Olusola has appeared on TV episodes of “Judge Hatchett,” “Maury Povich,” CNN and even in Good Housekeeping magazine. He and the Pioneers for Peace – all survivors of gun attacks – have spoken at hundreds of schools, youth rallies and other functions. Under Olusola’s leadership, the organization even received praise from ex-President George W. Bush, who issued a “Daily Point of Light” award. Olusola’s recent diagnosis left him unable to make public appearances to support his family, and he only recently received medical insurance. The Park West Foundation for youth plans a March event to honor Olusola and collect donations to help him. “This is an opportunity for Weusi to receive back some of the love he’s given,” says program director Saba Gebrai. “After 23 years of working in the community, he deserves it.” A former high school basketball star, Olusola was left wheelchair-bound at 16 after he was shot in Detroit. He has since committed his life to helping end gang and youth violence. For information about how to help Weusi, visit the Web site .
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