Submitted by, Mrs. Katie Sheahan Lenarduzzi, Principal, Our Lady of Mount Carmel CES
When Grade 8 student Hunter first approached his principal about hosting a school-wide viewing of The Bee Movie, he never imagined it would lead to raising $2,129 for the Oncology Unit at McMaster Children's Hospital.
As their Grade 8 year was coming to a close, Hunter and his classmates, Jonah, Hudson and Jakob, students at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Elementary School, wanted to organize a fun and memorable activity for the entire school community. Their idea: a whole-school Bee Movie viewing.
At the same time, the school community was rallying around a family in need. Mme. Souter, a French teacher at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and her family had recently received life-changing news: their young daughter, Emma, a student at the HWCDSB childcare centre located within the school, had been diagnosed with leukemia. As the Souter family began navigating the road ahead with the dedicated team at McMaster Children's Hospital, the connection between a fun school event and a meaningful cause quickly took shape.
Inspired to help, Hunter and his friends expanded their idea into a fundraising initiative. They organized a themed civvies day, encouraging students and staff to wear gold and black, with gold representing childhood cancer awareness. In addition to the movie viewing, the day featured a school-wide Bee Movie Kahoot! challenge, adding to the excitement and engagement.
On Friday, June 12, students and staff enthusiastically participated, many dressed in creative bee-themed outfits. The event was filled with energy, laughter and a strong sense of community. Congratulations to Mr. Coppolino's Grade 6 class for taking first place in the Kahoot! challenge.
Thanks to the generosity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel families, the event raised an impressive $2,129 in support of Emma, the Souter family and the Oncology Unit at McMaster Children's Hospital.
We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this meaningful initiative. Those wishing to continue supporting children like Emma can make a donation through Hamilton Health Sciences.
Together, we are making a difference and supporting the incredible care provided at our world-renowned children's hospital. God bless the families of Our Lady of Mount Carmel for their generosity.
See McMaster Children's Hospital special thank you video
here
