With the month of October you can expect cooler fall days and the colours of red, orange and yellow filling the Region’s skyline. Though for many, October is also filled with support, strength and the colour pink to acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Cancer affects most us, and it’s been no different within the WRDSB community. Students, teachers, support staff, parents, and community members all have shared experiences. We strive to prepare, challenge and inspire our learners to be engaged, connected and contributing global citizens inside and outside the classroom, which is why we come together in times of need to help one another.

Jen McTavish, a teacher at Margaret Avenue Senior Public School, was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago. She fought and won the battle, experiencing two and a half years of good health. However, the cancer returned this summer, and she has taken a leave this year to fight and conquer this disease again.

On Sunday October 5, the annual CIBC Run for the Cure was held at Conestoga College, and the WRDSB was in full force, continuing to have a big presence at the event. With a positive outlook and a bright smile, Jen and her team, Jen’s Jedi – made up of 70 supporters of family, friends and colleagues – participated in her honour. To date, they have raised over $15,400 for breast cancer research.

Visit Jen Jedi’s site for more information on her story.

 

Margaret Avenue PS and Jen Jedi's participate in the 2015 CIBC Run for the Cure.

Margaret Avenue PS and Jen Jedi’s participate in the 2015 CIBC Run for the Cure.

 

Pretty in pink to support Jen McTavish and acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Friends and family out in pink to support Jen McTavish and acknowledge Breast Cancer Awareness month.