B6

By Corinne Fitzherbert

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A sea of pink swept over Tobique Valley Middle High School last week and with it came waves of support for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

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Corinne Fitzherbert

Student council at Tobique Valley Middle High School organized a “think pink” day as a fundraiser for the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Students were encouraged to wear pink and walk around the soccer field and they could also purchase pink ribbons. These students were among those who supported the cause by wearing as much pink as they could find. The day raised $576.66.

The school’s student council organized the Sept. 30 fundraiser and encouraged everyone to “think pink”. Their efforts raised a total of $576.66.

“I’m really impressed with how well this has gone,” Jessica Parsons, co-president of the student council, said as the school’s soccer field filled with pink-clad students walking in support of finding a cure for breast cancer.

Students in pink housecoats, pink scarves, pink hats, pink t-shirts and even pink glasses made their way onto the field. Students who weren’t able to wear pink purchased pink ribbons to pin to their clothing.

“We made 200 ribbons and sold them for 50 cents each,” Parsons explained. “We sold out!” Students who participated in the fundraiser were asked to contribute $2 each although many chose to give more. To conclude their walk, students dressed in pink formed an impressive giant ribbon by sitting on the grassy hillside next to the school’s parking lot.

Parsons and co-president Jessica Gagnon explained they planned the fundraiser after attending a leadership conference in St. Andrews last year.

They learned of a similar event organized by another high school and decided they too would like to do something to demonstrate their willingness to help others.

“We wanted to go beyond having fundraisers for the school,” Parsons explained. “We walked to help those who really need it.”

Planning was done with the aid of additional student council members Deven Briggs, vice-president, Sandy Hollins, treasurer, Shyla Toner, secretary and Jana Christensen, communications officer. Parsons noted school staff members were also supportive.

“I’m really impressed with the teacher participation,” Parsons said, pointing out staff members decked completely in pink from head to toe.

Not only did the event raise money for the breast cancer foundation but also demonstrated an abundance of school spirit.

“Some people really went all out,” Parsons smiled. “We even have a guy wearing a pink skirt!”