Kayla Bunde at the Terry Fox Walk. Photo by Eddie G.
On Friday, September 7th, the Lasers of St Joseph's brought a busy first week of school to a close by participating in the school’s annual "Walk for Terry", which took place along the Ganatchio Trail and ended at Sandpoint Beach.
The student body raised approximately $7300 in the three days leading up to the walk.
Students made a donation of $10 to the Terry Fox Foundation in order to take part in the afternoon of fun and exercise. Participants wore the school’s colours or a bright yellow Terry Fox shirt creating a sea of blue and gold Laser Spirit along the paths.
Students clad in yellow and blue participate in the Terry Fox Walk. Photo by: Eddie Grimmett
Aside from making a sizeable donation to cancer research, the Lasers kept Mr. Byrne, who is currently battling cancer, and Mr. Plante, who recently passed away from cancer, in their hearts throughout the afternoon.
There were many people who ensured that the afternoon was a success. The leadership students of Mrs. Lalonde, Mr. Mcguire, and Mrs. Fetter all worked as one to plan and organize this event. They collected money and distributed shirts before the walk, and then guided students to the beach and kept it clean. It was a beneficial opportunity for the leaders-in-training.
Students in Mrs. Fetter and Mrs. Byrne's Leadership class pour drinks for the walkers at Sandpoint Beach during the Terry Fox Walk. Drinks provided by Mr. Soks. Photo by: Mia Portelance
“The experience was really fulfilling and helped me grow as a leader,” said Samantha L, a student who aided with the walk.
To start the afternoon activities, Ms. Fetter and Mrs. Walls led with an introduction and prayer in the courtyard. Erica L. emceed while Mrs. Owchar and the tech team provided tech support. Grade 11 student Christina A. sang the national anthem, which officially started the walk.
Once everyone had made their way to the beach, the afternoon was set in motion. Background music, provided by Mr. Barron, set the tone for the festivities. A juice station was set up, courtesy of Mr. Soks and his classes. The drinks were very much appreciated by the staff and students alike after the long walk from the school.
The atmosphere was fun and exciting, and Lasers were able to enjoy the riverfront; engage in some leisurely games of football, soccer, and volleyball; and run wild on the swings and playground equipment. Everyone was all smiles as the school community came together to celebrate Terry’s legacy. Grade 9 student Madelyn L. felt that the event was a blast. “It was really fun. I thought it was a really unique idea to walk out all the way to the beach and then come back.”
Thank you to everyone who donated, participated, and helped to organize this event. Make sure to stay tuned to Laser News to hear about upcoming fundraisers and school events!