April 15, 2025 (Oxford Mills, ON) - Valuable lessons in life sometimes extend beyond the classroom. At Oxford-on-Rideau Public School, a group of dedicated students is demonstrating the power of compassion, community, and action in response to a heartbreaking diagnosis.
Derek Ireton, or Ike as the students know him, is the spouse of a staff member and beloved member of the Oxford-on-Rideau Public School community. Derek was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in November 2024, and this devastating news deeply affected those who know him but has also sparked an inspiring initiative led by some of his young friends. Cole Devries (Grade 5), Hunter Wilson (Grade 4) and a few of their peers decided to take a stand in support of Derek by cutting their signature hockey mullets.
Their efforts go beyond symbolism though, with these dedicated students going a step further by raising funds for colon cancer research through their initiative, the "Mullet Massa-Cure for Ike.”
The fundraiser is a great example of student-led Real-World Learning and reflects the character, empathy, and leadership these students embody. They’ve been sporting custom Mullet Massa-Cure t-shirts and spreading the word in their school and community, directing people to send donations to a designated email address in the weeks leading up to the big mullet removal event.
“Their willingness to step up in such a meaningful way speaks volumes about the values instilled in them and the strong sense of community at Oxford-on-Rideau,” said Oxford-on-Rideau PS principal Karen Paterson.
Hunter offered insight into how the initiative got rolling. “Ike got cancer, and Cole came up to me one day and said we should cut out our mullets for Ike, and I said sure! Then it turned into this big thing. We got a huge cheque for like $5,000!”
In fact, the total raised leading up to the day of their trims was $5,500 with the total continuing to grow to this day.
“It feels really good,” added Hunter. “It was really fun, because we did it for one of my friends that I’ve known all my life.”
Every dollar raised through the Mullet Massa-Cure will go toward funding advancements in treatment and, ultimately, the search for a cure. By supporting this initiative, students not only stand with Derek but also contribute to a broader cause that impacts many lives.