The Dunkirk-Fredonia Relay for Life was held on June 21 at the SUNY Fredonia outdoor track. This year was a day filled with fun activities, lots of walking, talking and the power of uniting for a common cause, to fight cancer. The money raised through the Relay is used towards research to find new treatments and preventions for all types of Cancer. 

 

This year, the Wheelock Primary School joined together to form TEAM WHEELOCK. This team consisted of Wheelock teachers and staff along with their family members. The team had twenty-one members who participated at the Relay. Additionally, staff members who were unable to be there on the 21^st have made donations directly to the team. 

 

Co-Captains, Judith Przybyla and Sharon Kaminski infused enthusiasm for this great cause into the Wheelock School. Fundraisers included daily “Snack Attack” baskets located in the faculty lunchroom and main office. For a small donation, snacks are available to the Wheelock employees. “Our big fundraiser took place on May 27^th when we had a Coffee, Tea and Treats Bake Sale. We sold a variety of baked goods with the specialties being pink and purple large cut out ribbon cookies, a both beautifully decorated and delicious cake that was donated by a Wheelock student’s parent as well as yummy chocolate lollipops in the shape of a ribbon, muffins, Danishes,etc.” stated Mrs. Przybyla. Also on that day, TEAM WHEELOCK hats, visors and coffee mugs were sold. “We sold out of all the TEAM WHEELOCK items in a short time and will use the proceeds towards our team donation.” said Sharon Kaminski.

 

Additonally, Ms. Kaminski has spearheaded a pop can/bottle drive at the Wheelock school as another fundraiser. A giant receptacle has been placed at the entrance doors of Wheelock and students can place the pop can/plastic bottles directly into the can upon arrival in the morning. “This was an easy way to let the children know they can make a difference too” stated Ms. Kaminski.

 

Mrs. Yagger, the Occupational Therapist at Wheelock offered to help TEAM WHEELOCK by having a few of her students make handwritten signs of support for our team. We placed these signs around our booth at the relay. The students got a chance to practice the skills they have learned in OT while helping our team too. They are so proud to be helping us. Also the FTA banner was at our booth as they generously supported our team.

 

The Relay for Life event made for  a wonderful day and TEAM WHEELOCK was proud to be a part of it. We hope to see many of our friends at the event next year.