Arklan Community P.S. Rallies Behind Student, Raising More Than $11,000 for Terry Fox Foundation
October 16, 2024 (Carleton Place, ON) – In a heartwarming display of community solidarity, the students, staff and families at Arklan Community Public School have come together to raise an incredible $11,754 for the Terry Fox Foundation. This year’s fundraising efforts were deeply personal, inspired by UCDSB student Sam Rudge, daughter of Arklan Vice-Principal Sarah Rudge, who has been bravely battling osteosarcoma, the same cancer that Terry Fox had.
Sam’s journey began in August 2023, while preparing for Grade 12 at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute (SFDCI). After experiencing persistent leg pain and swelling in the knee, biopsy results revealed the diagnosis in September 2023. Following months of intensive chemotherapy and a complex 11-hour surgery involving a full knee replacement, Sam reached remission and continues to work hard in physiotherapy to regain mobility. Through it all, Sam’s courage and resilience have been a source of inspiration for the entire community.
Sam’s mom Sarah, a passionate advocate for the Terry Fox Foundation, invited Sam to join Arklan’s kickoff assemblies in September. Sam’s heartfelt answers to students’ questions and their incredible journey motivated the entire student body in the school’s fundraising efforts. The community organized a variety of activities, including pie-in-the-face challenges to hair donation pledges, with the goal of supporting cancer research.
“I’m so proud of our students and staff for the incredible support they’ve shown Sam and the Terry Fox Foundation,” said Sarah. “Sam’s bravery has inspired us all, and our community has demonstrated the power of hope and compassion.”
Sam’s journey is far from over, but they are back in school to complete Grade 12 at Smiths Falls District Collegiate Institute as the family stays optimistic about the future. Sam hopes to attend Algonquin College for Animation after graduation and continues to work on recovery.
“When we set our initial goal, I ambitiously wanted to raise between $5,000-$8,000. Never in my wildest dreams did I think we could bring in a final total of more than $11,000,” said Sarah, who cut off 16 inches of her own hair for donation.
“I know that Terry’s legacy carries on in the hearts of all Canadians, and I hope that Sam’s legacy can carry on for this great community,” she added. “I am eternally grateful and am so proud to be an Arklan Wildcat!”