You are probably aware that next week is a significant week in the Mueller calendar. ‘You Belong’ week at Mueller is great week of community building and opportunities for student to serve one another. It coincides each year with the National Day Against Bullying on the 15th of March and the Leukaemia Foundation, ‘Shave for a Cure’. The school becomes a sea of orange shirts and events throughout the week culminating in students and staff having their heads shaved on Friday the 15th of March.
We have been gearing up this week with our assemblies welcoming some special guests to share with the students of how good work done with the important funds raised. Patricia Hooper from the Leukaemia foundation spoke of the how the money provides ground-breaking research and care facilities for those affected by this tragic disease. We were blessed to have Loma Willis, a Mueller Grandparent and Great Grandparent of almost 20 years, attend as well. Loma and her family were personally affected by Leukaemia when her husband Eric was diagnosed with the condition in 1998. As a result, her family pulled together to organise the very first ‘Shave for a Cure’ in 1998 in Lismore, raising an incredible $80,000 for the Leukaemia foundation. There were over 200 people in total whose heads were shaved – with a razor!
The money raised had been earmarked to purchase phones for the Mater hospital so patients such as Eric could remain in contact with their families whilst in hospital. It is a great reminder for our community of the power of banding together in support of a cause, more importantly in support of people who are going through very difficult times. The example of Loma and her family is a powerful one for our community.
This year the students have set an ambitious fund-raising target of $25,000 to go towards helping others.
There are a range of initiatives which are being undertaken but I would encourage you to support the students in their endeavours. The other incentive to raise the money is that if the goal is reached two prominent staff members in Mrs Shapland and Mr Kregenbrink will also shave their heads!
You will hear much more about the events of ‘You Belong’ week over the coming days and I would encourage you to get involved and enjoy the celebrations. If you are interested in donating to the Leukaemia Foundation you can sponsor Mrs Shapland or Mr Kregenbrink in their fundraising efforts. I hope you enjoy all the ‘You Belong’ week has to offer!
Todd Langford
Week 6 // News and Updates
