Julien St-Jean
Shawville Sept. 17, 2021
Students from Pontiac High School (PHS) got out of the classroom and into the sun during the school’s annual Terry Fox run last Thursday, covering a combined total of 2,363 km.
“It was really nice to get out on the walk again,” said Tara Fitzpatrick, a PHS teacher and one of the event’s organizers.
She explained that the school was unable to hold the run last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, but this year, the students were happy to be running in support of Terry Fox’s dream and showed plenty of enthusiasm.
“It’s the awareness and keeping Terry’s dream alive and building community spirit,” said Fitzpatrick. “I’m just so happy to be able to organize it again, I couldn’t be happier with the turnout.”
After returning to the school grounds, students enjoyed a barbecue with hot dogs, fruit and various snacks available. The barbecue raised $1,200 for the Terry Fox Foundation.
Much of the barbecue’s supplies, such as buns and chocolates, were donated by local businesses; Joanne’s Valumart, Terry Campbell, Giant Tiger, Billy T’s, Rhonda’s and Pontiac Ice.
Fitzpatrick expressed pride in the student’s behaviour, pointing out that many students were making donations to the Terry Fox Foundation. She said that many students showed respect and lots of understanding towards the day’s meaning.
“It really is just keeping Terry’s dream alive,” said Fitzpatrick. “[By] not giving up hope, we can do wonderful things together.”
