Cyril Varney Public School raises funds for Heart and Stroke

Brier Johnson-Lachapelle, a Grade 6 student at Cyril Varney Public School, spearheaded a fundraising drive for the Heart and Stroke Foundation at her school.  She recruited several of her friends and classmates to create and sell bracelets in the Varney school colors. The students sold 321 bracelets over two days.  Brier’s teacher, Peter Larsen, supported the effort by allowing the Grade 6 class to make bracelets to keep up with demand. "This was a wonderful teachable moment as students worked together to contribute to the cause," said Principal Ron Hodkinson. "What a wonderful community effort!" Geoff Leonard, Senior Area Manager of the local Heart and Stroke Foundation, visited Cyril Varney Public School on Thursday, October 18th to receive the donation of $231.21. During the presentation, the students talked about family members who lost their lives to stroke and the importance of building awareness. “Brier contacted the Heart and Stroke Foundation and organized the partnership,” said Principal Hodkinson. “Her leadership is a shining example of what young people can achieve when they work together to build better communities.” Presenting the donation to Geoff Leonard are Grade 6 students, front row, from left, Aimee Landry, Emily Mcmartin and Ranna Baniaga and, back row, from left, Grace Bellmore, Brier Johnson-Lachapelle and Lakota Halverson.