Teacher, former mayor’s cancer fight unites Espanola students, staff, community

Espanola students, calling themselves Jill’s Courage Crew, rallied for teacher Jill Beer after her uterine cancer diagnosis, joining her 100km fundraising walk.

More than 500 people took part in a fundraising walk and barbecue on Friday to support an Espanola teacher recently diagnosed with uterine cancer.

The entire school, students and staff, along with members of the broader community, participated in the walk for Jill Beer, the town’s former mayor and currently a math and business teacher at Espanola Secondary School, who is awaiting surgery.

When she was diagnosed in early May, Beer vowed to walk 100 kilometres in June to raise money for cancer research. Students joined her effort, calling the school team ‘Jill’s Courage Crew.’

‘It was the least we could do’

Student organizer Parker Ranni said Beer has deep roots in the community.

“She was the mayor. She has been a teacher here for 20+ years. She has touched many younger generations; she has taught plenty,” he said.

Ranni told CTV News that his parents remember Beer, and other parents likely do as well.

“When I first heard about her diagnosis, I figured that it was the least we could do to give back to her,” he said.

Principal praises students’ kindness

Andrea Therrien, principal of Espanola Secondary School, said the event demonstrated positive values beyond academics.

“It’s a good sign of these amazing kids, who you know we want them to be successful academically, but also to grow up and be good, kind people who do great things,” she said, speaking with CTV News at the event on June 12.

‘I cried ugly tears’

Beer said the student-led gesture moved her deeply, even though she knew something was planned.

“I was absolutely touched the students wanted it to be a surprise. However, I had seen an email that went to all staff, but I was still surprised,” she said.

Beer recalled her emotional reaction with an anecdote – attempting to lighten the mood.

“You know I probably cried ugly tears, and I am kind of glad that (I) cried those, got those out of the way,” she said.

Fundraising continues online

On the Canadian Cancer Society’s fundraising page for ‘Jill’s Courage Crew,’ Beer wrote that her personal challenge has grown into a team effort.

“After my cancer diagnosis, I decided to do the 100 kilometres walking challenge in June. This started as an individual event, but I have received so much love and support from family, friends, and students that we decided to make this a team event,” Beer said.

She noted that the team has already surpassed her original goal.

“We have reached my initial goal, but as a team, we want to take this further. Help us reach our new goal by joining our team and fundraising with us or by making a … donation,” Beer said on her fundraising page.

The online fundraiser has raised more than $3,850 in addition to whatever was collected Friday in person.