Salesian High School Walk-a-Thon for the American Cancer Society

By Fr. Jim Heuser, SDB, President, Salesian High School

(New Rochelle, N.Y. – October 28) – Salesian High School held its second annual Walk-a-Thon on Friday, October 23, in support of the American Cancer Society.

The weather was sunny, and the temperature was crisp as 450 students, teachers, and some parents made a three-mile walk through Five Islands Park and the Petersville section of New Rochelle. Motorists and homeowners both took note as the school community, decked in cerulean blue Walk-a-Thon T-shirts, strode through the neighborhood.

The choice to raise funds this year for the American Cancer Society resulted from the fact that the illness has struck members of our school community: educators, students, and Salesians themselves, as well as family members. Over $5,000 was raised by the school to go towards cancer research and patient support.

At the walk’s end, participants enjoyed some ice cream in the school playground. Then Mr. Francis Badillo, the coordinator of youth ministry, gave a heartfelt testimony about the suffering of his eldest son, Luis, recounting his cancer diagnosis two years ago, the various treatments attempted, the relentless progression of the illness, and his current condition in a hospital.

As school dispersed for the weekend, Mr. Badillo headed back to his son’s bedside to share with him and family members gathered around him some photos and video of the Walk-A-Thon, and the assurance of our school community’s prayer.