Sophia Abimanan knows how cancer can affect a family,  so she decided to take a walk with her schoolmates to help raise funds for research.

Students from Transcona-based St. Joseph the Worker School did their part to help find a cure for cancer by taking part in the Terry Fox National School Run Day last week.

Abimanan, a Grade 3 student at the school, said it was important for her to take part in the event.

"My mom has cancer, and for other people who have cancer, this can make them feel better," said Abimanan, adding that she would like to see her principal in a dunk tank.

Students set a fundraising goal of $1,200 — if they reach it they have suggested that school principal Judi Pacheco dress-up silly, paint her face, wear coloured hair and get a pie in the face, if they reach their goal.

Pacheco, who recently started her second year as principal, said she’s happy to do what she can to inspire the kids to make a difference, even if it means a pie in the face.

"Last year the goal was $1,200 and we raised over $1,700. The kids got to crack 12 eggs on my head," Pacheco said with a laugh.

"This means the world to us. Cancer touches every family in one way or another. Some of the little ones may not understand it yet, but they pick  up on the importance of it from the older kids."

Music teacher Maryka Chabluk, who helped organize the walk, said the school encourages students to take part in events that will make a difference in the community.

"We want to do outreach in the community. Cancer can hit very close to home, and we want to make a difference," said Chabluk, who has taught at the school for 11 years.

Grade 5 student Eric Tokar said taking part in the walk is just a small way he and his classmates can help raise funds for cancer research.

"I want to raise awareness for people, and raise funds so people with cancer can feel better," Tokar said.

 facebook.com/TheHeraldWpg
Twitter: HeraldWPG

adrian.alleyne@canstarnews.com