St. Michael’s School marks 30 years of Terry Fox runs

Commentator/Courier Photo Submitted

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

Students from St. Michael’s School in Bow Island joined students from two other local schools for a community Terry Fox Run on a sunny Monday, Sept. 28. For the first time in many years, all three schools walked at the same time. Bow Island emergency services escorted students and staff along the route.

St. Michael’s entire school community, from Playschool+ through Grade 9, took part. The school set a fundraising goal of $1,500, and donations had reached $2,131 at last count. Donations remained open for the week, so the total may have exceeded that total.

Principal Jill Weatherhead said the community’s generosity never fails to impress staff.

“Our staff is always blown away by our community’s generosity here at St. Michael’s School. Our numbers are small, but our hearts are big,” she said. “Sadly, it seems we are all affected by cancer in some way, so this fundraiser allows us to try and make a difference in the lives of those affected by this scary, unpredictable disease. I love the agency, hope, and community spirit this fundraiser gives our students.”

This year also marks 30 years of Terry Fox fundraising at St. Michael’s, dating back to 1997. Over that time, the school community has raised $119,973.25 for cancer research.

Juliette Tetrault, manager of school runs for the Terry Fox Foundation in Alberta, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, praised the school’s long-standing commitment.

“Your school has raised $119,973.25 over the years, which is truly remarkable for such a small community,” she said. “You should all be very proud of your hard work in fundraising, as these funds truly do make a big difference in cancer research.”

Tetrault also recognized this year’s students and their families.

“I am truly blown away that 54 students can raise $2,000. It goes to show the generosity in small communities always stands out.”

Small steps truly add up to a big impact.