Retired teacher inspires us to continue giving

Just as fundraising for this year’s Terry Fox Run at Trinity College School was wrapping up, students received a wonderful surprise during morning chapel service on Tuesday, October 11th. Lois Jackson, retired TCS music teacher and arts director, returned to the School to thank all the students for their commitment to raising money for cancer research.

Ms. Jackson learned she had an advanced stage of cancer less than 48 hours after retiring from the School, but she has battled the disease successfully. She described herself as being the face of a cancer survivor and one of the many reasons why our school community continues to support the Terry Fox Foundation. Ms. Jackson struggled emotionally to finish her presentation, saying she is so thankful to have been given a second chance at living. She was given a well deserved standing ovation by students and staff for her courage and perseverance in battling her cancer. “The enthusiasm she showed in her presentation was wonderful to see – she was as vibrant as ever!” says Mrs. Jen Powles, the Terry Fox Run coordinator for the Senior School.

Ms. Jackson’s visit so inspired everyone that the deadline for fundraising was extended in response to the students’ requests to collect even more money! And Ms. Jackson has also issued a challenge to TCS faculty and staff to reach deep and continue to contribute as much as possible (everyone is still welcome to donate online at https://www.terryfox.org/SchoolRun/school2.html; please indicate a student’s name/house in your donation).

Mrs. Powles and Mr. Colin Powles (organizer of the Junior School’s Terry Fox Run) were thrilled to report on another successful fundraising effort. The Junior School once again met the challenge, raising $6,300. As a result, the students of Boulden House will have the chance to switch seats in chapel with Burns and Bethune House next Monday.

The donations raised by the Senior School were amazing too! Leading the way was Ketchum House, which brought in nearly $5,000 as the girls really embraced this cause. Hodgetts House also had a wonderful year, raising $2,700. They were followed by Orchard House, which raised $2,500, its largest contribution to date.

Overall, the School has raised more than $21,000 and we are so appreciative of everyone’s contributions. Together we really can make a difference in the fight against cancer!