On January 17, Chateauguay Valley Regional High School (CVR) hosted a benefit comedy show and concert to raise money for Gerry McAdam. Gerry is a Grade 10 student at CVR who has been battling an aggressive form of cancer for three years. Instead of using his wish from the Make-A-Wish Foundation for himself, he decided to use it to help build a training facility for the Hemmingford volunteer fire department.
CVR’s principal, Lynn Harkness, says the event was “a true representation of the Chateauguay Valley community.” The local band Rhythm and Booze offered to play for free, and the comedians who travelled to the Valley generously reduced their fees for such an important cause. Over 300 people turned up for the event, and together they were able to raise over $25,000 for the project. Harkness is happy to say that “With all the money we raised with this event and Make-A-Wish, Gerry will probably be able to start building in April.” Gerry’s dad shared with Harkness that they have already been talking with architects and engineers about the plans.
To continue supporting Gerry’s initiative, donations can be made through CVR. Harkness says, “The CVR community, staff, faculty, families, were all absolutely incredible. The team really came together. I have to say there’s nothing that the team can’t do. It was really a community affair.”
On February 16, CVR is hosting a performing arts alumni concert, whose profits will also go towards Gerry’s wish.