Fourth Graders Visit Oncology Unit

Fourth grade students in Pacelli Catholic Schools love to get directly involved with their work, and to help others. What started as a once-a-year service project has blossomed into a year round effort.

Eight years ago, students of St. Stephen school had the honor of creating Valentines for the Oncology Unit at St. Michael’s Hospital. The Valentine idea started as a service project in conjunction with our school’s celebration of Catholic Schools Week, the last week of January annually.

The fourth grade teachers at St. Stephen’s developed the “Candy Kisses Valentine Tube Project” as a way to reach out in friendship and love to those experiencing some “not so happy” days. Their hope was to add a smile to patients’ days. “We are excited to be able to extend the happiness in a new way this year,” said Tess Lawlis, a fourth grader.

This year, the fourth grade students created seasonal decorations to help cheer up the patients and their families who are spending time in the Oncology Unit. “Our students really enjoy creating projects they know will bring smiles to others. The pride the kids take in service projects is inspiring,” said Lisa Springob.

“The feedback we have received each year from the Oncology Unit has been extremely positive,” said Amy Parks, fourth grade teacher. Last February, the staff at the unit offered to fund the supplies for the project, as it has brought so much “sunshine” to the patients. They were hoping we would continue doing the project. “This inspired us to reach out in another way,” said Springob.

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