We knew the money would be going to do some pretty phenomenal things and help those in need. I think the Jump-A-Thon is exactly how Lakken would have wanted students to learn about helping those less fortunate. She was always the first one to want to help others before helping herself and it’s amazing that I got to be a part of inspiring my students to want to do the same.”

Hillary Fitzsimmons

Stanley-Boyd Elementary students recently showcased their dedication and spirit during the SB Jump-a-thon, a month-long event that raised $11,292.25 for Lakken’s Legacy, a nonprofit organization “dedicated to delivering a little sparkle to those battling cancer.” Inspired by Lakken Burzynski, Lakken’s Legacy was created in accordance with Lakken’s wishes to share her joy and light with other cancer patients and help them to “live each day as if it’s your last!”
Running from February 14th to March 14th, the Jump-a-thon fundraiser, created by Stanley-Boyd physical education teacher Hillary Fitzsimmons and 3rd grade teacher Mary Krzyzanowski, allowed students to demonstrate their commitment to giving back and their athleticism by encouraging students to jump rope while raising funds for this great cause. Each participant set a jumping goal and collected donations from family, friends, and community members, with all proceeds benefiting Lakken’s Legacy. Students in 2nd to 5th grade were also given opportunities in P.E. to join the 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5-minute club. In total, they jumped for more than 14 hours trying to make it into these clubs.
“They love this challenge and really enjoy writing their names on the board,” said Fitzsimmons.
The event was a huge success and brought the community together in support of a worthy cause that was close to home.
“We knew the money would be going to do some pretty phenomenal things and help those in need. I think the Jump-A-Thon is exactly how Lakken would have wanted students to learn about helping those less fortunate. She was always the first one to want to help others before helping herself and it’s amazing that I got to be a part of inspiring my students to want to do the same,” said Fitzsimmons who was amazed at the total amount raised. “I just hope we can do the same next year.”
The Jump-a-thon was not only a fun and active way for students to engage with their peers, but it also taught them the value of community and the impact they can have when they come together for a shared purpose. The top elementary student fundraisers were Elaina Gunnelson, Claire Krzyzanowski, Hinley Mertens, Bailey Lew, Carter Samplawski, Bentley Samplawski, Jace Fitzsimmons and top earner Charlie Poehls, who raised $650. The funds will go a long way in supporting the mission of the foundation and making a positive difference in the lives of many.
Greg Burzynski, Stanley-Boyd Middle school principal and founder of Lakken’s Legacy, shared that the funds raised will help continue fulfilling Lakken’s wishes, including “Best Day Ever” retreats tailored to local cancer patients’ wishes and hobbies, scholarships for cancer survivors, siblings of cancer patients, and students graduating from Stanley-Boyd High School, and a weekend getaway called “Living Lakken’s Legacy” for adult cancer survivors and patients in Wisconsin, offering a sense of community and a temporary escape with support from Joshua’s Camp. He also mentioned a “chemo cart” at the hospital where Lakken was treated, providing activities, snacks, and personal care items to patients undergoing inpatient chemotherapy.
Burzynski expressed his surprise at the total amount raised, saying, “When we heard the total, we were very surprised! I know the elementary has been very successful at raising funds in the past, but we were amazed when we were told the total amount raised! We are very appreciative and grateful for what they have done.” He added, “Thank you to all who participated in and donated to this Jump-a-Thon event! The funds raised will help us continue our mission and hopefully expand into helping more people in more ways. Lakken’s Legacy is our way of keeping our daughter’s positive outlook on life, willingness to help, and memory of her alive through what we do.”
The Stanley-Boyd Elementary School and local community has once again shown the power of teamwork, kindness, and generosity, proving that when they come together, great things can happen.
For more information, visit www.lakkenslegacy.com or follow Lakken’s Legacy on Facebook.