Cancer patient leads the way

Georgette Chalifoux, centre, and her grandsons, Mikal Van de Ligt, left, and Dwayne Badger-Chalifoux, led dozens of people in the Journey for Hope Nov. 2.

Mac Olsen
South Peace News

Despite having lung cancer and with great strength of will, Georgette Chalifoux led Peavine residents in the Journey for Hope Nov. 2. Starting and ending at the community centre, 52 people biked, ran, rollerbladed or walked for three, five or 10 kilometres. Participants also collected pledges and organizer Blair Cunningham received approximately $1,500 as of Nov. 4. He will present the money to Chalifoux at a community dinner this month. Chalifoux appreciates the community’s support. “I’m really happy a lot of people are supporting the cause,” she says. “I appreciate Blair for organizing this and the support of my kids and neighbours.” In January 2008, Chalifoux learned she has cancer in her left lung. A PET (positron emission tomography) scan at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton Aug. 19 determined it has grown and is now in five places. She will go to Edmonton this month for chemotherapy. Despite missing a week of work in late October, Chalifoux remains in high spirits. “I’m thinking positively and I’m still working at Head Start.” She encourages other communities to support their cancer patients as Peavine Métis Settlement has supported her. Cunningham praises Chalifoux for her work in Head Start and children’s sports. “Georgette is a valued community leader,” says Cunningham. “She has a done a lot for our community.” Heather Anderson completed the 10 kilometres and was happy to participate. “It’s a good cause. It’s good to show the community cares,” Anderson says, adding she gets involved with many fundraisers. Anita Cunningham participates in other fundraisers like this, including the Terry Fox Run. She, too, thinks highly of Chalifoux. “Georgette is quite a lady. She’s a very hard-working woman and does a lot for her family,” she says. This was the second event of the week. Peavine Bishop Routhier School and Head Start held a run for Chalifoux Oct. 27 and they collected pledges too. She will receive the money from that event during a ceremony tentatively set for Nov. 14.

Copyright © 1999-2005 South Peace News. All Rights Reserved.
No part may be reproduced without written permission.

View our Privacy Statement.
Send website suggestions to the Webmaster