This year’s annual Harker Cancer Walk was a huge success, bringing in $7,700 in one day alone, with donations still being received at Harker News Online press time. Middle school students, faculty and Harker family members went the extra mile – both literally and figuratively – in an effort to raise money for Camp Okizu.

The camp provides fun activities and quality care for young cancer patients, enabling them to enjoy such outdoor childhood pastimes as swimming, boating, archery and a ropes course, in addition to social events.

“Even Mother Nature got with the program!” said Cindy Ellis, middle school head, who organized the event with middle school computer science teacher Michael Schmidt. Schmidt began organizing the Cancer Walk in 2007 following the passing of his mother due to cancer in 2006.

Along with the welcome warm weather, Ellis was pleased with the large amount of T-shirts, water bottles, Jamba Juice, baked goodies, temporary tattoos and wrist bands which were sold, supplementing the direct donations.

Thanking the Harker community for once again stepping up to the plate, Schmidt said, “It was a beautiful day filled with sunshine, giving and inspiration.”

“Michael deserves a special word of gratitude; he is the driving force behind this event. Fortunately, he has picked up some special helpers along the way. This walk signifies the wonderful heart and spirit of the entire community, including faculty, staff, parents and students,” said Ellis.

Donations are still being accepted at this time. Checks or cash can be brought to the Blackford campus front office. Checks can be made out to either Camp Okizu or Harker.