Published: October 04, 2008 02:31 am            

NEWFANE: Kids raise funds for leukemia in memory of classmate

NEWFANE — The balloons said it all. Hope. Love. Jamie.

About 280 Newfane Intermediate School kids spent some time Friday afternoon walking around the school track. The kids were fourth- and fifth-graders, sponsored by friends and family, walking for “In the Light of the Day,” an event to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. They were also honoring the memory of a fellow Newfane student, Jamie Badding.

Jamie lost her battle with leukemia about a year ago, but not before leaving a lasting impression on those who knew her. After being diagnosed with leukemia, Jamie inspired many by making bracelets bearing uplifting words such as “hope” and “love.” Jamie’s bracelets were sold to raise money to help children with cancer, and to organizations such as Women and Children’s Hospital, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Golisano Children’s Hospital and Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Newfane teachers and students wanted to do something to not only remember Jamie, but to give back, as she did.

“We thought this would be the best thing to do,” Newfane teacher Virginia Bower said.

Students were given a sponsor sheet a week ago and asked to have friends and family give donations to support them in the walk. In that short amount of time, the kids raised $4,293.70. Their accomplishment was announced by Principal Tom Adams before the walk. Students cheered as they proceeded to the track to begin their walk.

Newfane Middle School was also involved Friday, as students and staff participated in “Jammies for Jamie.” Those who donated money to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society were allowed to wear their pajamas to school. The Middle School students raised an estimated $300.

The walkers on the track held white balloons with “Jamie” written on them as they traveled. Some held red balloons with some of the same words Jamie used for her bracelets.

Fifth-graders Katie Kneeland, Erin Kerwin, Jordyn Congelli, Olivia Copeland and Michaila Diel walked around the track together. They were arm-in-arm for a little while and carried some of the balloons. Congelli was good friends with Jamie, and lived close to her on the same street.

“I used to go her house,” Congelli said. “I helped her with the Build-a-Bears passed around at Roswell.”

Some of the proceeds from the bracelets went to purchase Build-a-Bears for other children with cancer in hospitals. Jamie’s deeds were recognized by the a proclamation from the state, which was presented and read at a Newfane Board of Education meeting in December.

All five girls said they were happy to be out on the track for a good cause, and to remember Jamie. The students walked around until about five minutes after 3 p.m., when Assistant Principal Pam Leibring thanked the students for their effort.

“Thank you so much,” she told the students.

“This just goes to show how much of an impact Jamie has made in our community,” Bower said. “Her legacy was carried on today in Newfane.”

Contact reporter Joe Olenick at 439-9222, ext. 6241.

        

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