A student’s battle with cancer moved her peers at the Woodbury school last summer. Literally.
Nearly 30 Red Rock students participated in last year’s MiracleKids Triathlon, a Miracles of Mitch Foundation event that raises money for families whose children are going through cancer treatment.
This summer, however, the school opened up participation to other District 833 students, and several more have stepped up as the local group tries to raise $20,000 for the event, said Andrew Caflisch, principal at Red Rock Elementary.
Already $10,900 has been raised for the August triathlons, and group-training sessions have been organized by one of the school’s parents, a trainer, Caflisch said. (There are two events, one at Lake Nakomis and one at Lake Ann.)
Red Rock student Julia Burns was among the young athletes who participated last year. “I wanted to challenge myself,” she said.
Julia said a big part of her reason for competing in the triathlon was that the money raised would “help kids with cancer,” and her goal is the same this year.
During last year’s triathlon, young cancer victims cheered on the athletes, Caflisch said.
"They were really moved by the kids who were going through cancer treatment,” he said.
It’s a good cause, and also helps students learn the value of living healthy and giving back to the community, Caflisch said.
“I’m just proud of all the kids taking the initiative and being part of it,” he said.
There are about 45 students participating in the August triathlons. Donations are tax deductible. For more information on how to donate, visit the local group’s website.
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