NEGAUNEE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Like many, Friday marked Lakeview Elementary’s last day of school. Before their summer break, students had the chance at a unique activity for an amazing cause. In support of one of their classmates going through cancer treatment, the school held a dunk tank to raise money for her and her family.
Fourth grade Lakeview student Maddie Dodd is currently undergoing treatment for Leukemia in Ann Arbor. Her fellow classmates, teachers, and the surrounding community have made a valiant effort to raise money for her, since her diagnosis.
“We’re raising money so she can afford all of the appointments she’s having,” said fourth grader Lucy Kangas.
“We really wanted to find ways that we could help the family out as much as we possibly could,” said Principal Heather Holman. “We had 10 staff members volunteer to get in the tank.”
Today’s dunk tank raised more than $500 dollars for Maddie.
“Window Outfitters donated a dollar for every student to throw, which we thought was amazing, $585 dollars just so every single student could throw,” said Principal Holman.
“We all have chances to come out and dunk a teacher,” said fourth grader Elyse Lajoie.
Students have raised money for Maddie in their own ways, both in and outside of school, bringing an unwavering amount of love and support for their classmate. Fourth graders Kestin Finnila and Hadley Herron both have made great efforts to help out.
“I’m happy that people want to raise money for her and that people are caring about her,” said Herron. “Me and Hadley both had a lemonade stand and we raised over one hundred dollars for Maddie,” said Finnila.
“The students have been trying to find ways to be supportive of Maddie since her diagnosis, said Principal Holman. “The students sold bracelets at lunchtime and the proceeds went to the family. They love her, this whole school loves her, and anything they can do to support her has been really great.”
Friday was an exciting day for students. Lakeview fourth graders will soon be moving schools, and all agreed that the dunk tank fundraiser was a great way to end their year.