Sudbury high school reaches fundraising milestone in the fight against cancer

A Sudbury-area high school was recognized for a fundraising milestone in their annual cancer drive this week.

Lockerby Composite School raised $27,000 during their 2022 ‘Kids Caring for Kids Cancer Drive,' bringing the total amount raised by the annual event to more than $1 million. (Supplied)Lockerby Composite School’s annual ‘Kids Caring for Kids Cancer Drive’ reached a major milestone last year – raising more than $1 million for pediatric cancer research and cancer care in partnership with the Northern Cancer Foundation (NCF.) The campaign raised $27,000 in 2022.

On Thursday, several students and some staff members gathered at the Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre to watch the unveiling of special recognition pieces commemorating the achievement.

A plaque hangs in the pediatric chemotherapy waiting room acknowledging the generations of students and staff who have made a difference in cancer care and a cabinet filled with memories of Lockerby’s fundraising efforts now stands in the cancer centre’s lobby.

“I wanted to share the news of Lockerby’s $1 million milestone that was celebrated,” said Jessica Lopatka, senior manager of brand marketing and communications for the foundations at Health Sciences North (HSN.)

The annual cancel drive was founded in 1995 and has created a lasting impact on young patients affected by cancer in our community. However, in 1998, the event took on a new significance after a Lockerby student, Laura Cotesta, lost her battle with cancer the year prior.

Laura’s legacy now lives on through both this event and the impact of the actions of students and faculty at the school, said NCF officials in a news release.

“The accomplishments of Lockerby students and faculty is on display for the community to see as they walk through the Cancer Centre doors,” reads the release.

A cabinet filled with memories of Lockerby Composite School’s annual fundraising efforts now stands in the lobby of Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre. (Supplied)Lockerby Composite School (LCS) principal Ryan Lafraniere said he is thrilled the school has reached this milestone and is proud of the impact it has had on children in the community.

"We know that every dollar raised has made a difference,” he said.

“Families across the North will benefit for years to come."

Organizers said the success of the drive is a reflection of the generosity and compassion of our community. Local businesses, organizations, and individuals have all contributed to the cause – making a difference in the lives of young cancer patients for nearly three decades.

“We are proud to continue to carry the banner forward in memory of Laura Cotesta and make this fundraising initiative a lasting legacy for our community,” said Lafraniere.

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Anthony Keating is the president and CDO of the foundations and volunteer groups at HSN and said the organizations are grateful for the support.

“The ongoing dedication of the staff and students of Lockerby is an inspiration,” he said.

“The money raised will allow us to continue supporting vital services for our pediatric patients and their families.”

NCF congratulated all involved for reaching the “incredible” $1 million milestone.

“The ‘Kids Caring for Kids Cancer Drive’ shows that when we come together for a common cause – we can achieve great things,” reads the release.

“Thank you for your overwhelming and continued support in the fight against cancer.”