On January 17, Chateauguay Valley Regional High School (CVR) is hosting a comedy and music fundraiser in honour of one of its students. The show will feature comedy by Joey Elias and Friends, followed with music by Rhythm and Booze. A cash bar will also be available.
Gerry McAdam is a 16-year-old student who is currently in grade 10 at CVR. In February of 2022 he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that originates in the muscle cells. It has been a long journey for him and his family, filled with trips to the hospital, chemotherapy, radiation, and uncertainty. CVR’s principal, Lynn Harkness, shares that “His unwavering strength, courage, and resilience continue to inspire all who know him. Through it all, Gerry has kept an incredibly positive attitude, focusing not on what he’s lost, but on what he can give back.”
For a long time, McAdam has wanted to become a firefighter. He knows that the title is a commitment to serve the community and help people in time of need. When he realized he was eligible for a wish with the Make-A-Wish foundation, instead of using it for himself, he decided to donate it to the community.
Currently, the training centre for the Hemmingford Fire Department is over an hour away from the town, which creates barriers for some of the volunteer firefighters. McAdam decided to put his wish towards building a training facility in Hemmingford. Harkness explains that “He would like to purchase multi-purpose container units for firefighter training, where firefighters can practice and train to keep their skills sharp and protect their community.” The municipality has already approved the project.
So far, McAdam has raised over $60,000, but the project is going to cost $100,000 to complete. To help him reach his goal, CVR is organizing this comedy/music night, hoping the community will show up and show their support for McAdam and the project. “Gerry has shown us what true heroism looks like – not in the form of capes or accolades, but in the quiet courage he gives to others, even when facing the toughest of circumstances,” Harkness says.
To get tickets for the show, you can either pick them up at CVR or purchase them on the day. Tickets are $30, and the doors will open at 7 p.m.