Second-graders rallying to support classmate
Classmates of a 2nd grader at Longfellow Elementary School in Buffalo Grove are rallying around her as she fights cancer.
Erika was diagnosed with bone cancer in the lower jaw and has been going through chemotherapy. This summer, she'll be having reconstructive surgery on her face.
Debby Serbin, the principal at Longfellow, said Erika has kept an upbeat attitude through the whole ordeal.
"She's a tough little lady," Serbin said. "Her family has been facing this challenge in a very positive, hopeful way."
Since Serbin informed parents and students of Erika's challenge, many have asked to be part of fundraising efforts that will go toward some of the medical bills the family faces.
The school established the Friends for Erika Fund and has already done several activities to bring in money.
Recently, the school kept the library open during a concert night so that students and parents could read a book for Erika and post their selections on a bulletin board to show their support for her.
Students have also set up lemonade stands and sold bookmarks to collect a couple thousand dollars for the fund.
On Tuesday, the school will be doing a walk to raise funds. At 2 p.m., the kids and teachers will take a 30 minute walk around the area in return for pledged donations. They will also decorate shoes when they get back to show their support for Erika.
"So she knows she doesn't have to walk this challenge alone," Serbin said.
Ram, a local restaurant in Wheeling, has donated gift cards for multiple visits to the restaurant that the school is selling at $15 each or two for $25.
"We're trying to teach the students that on the one hand, treat Erika like a regular kid, but, on the other hand, be caring and supportive," Serbin said.
Anyone interested in donating to the fund should contact Longfellow School at (847) 520-2755.
Checks can be sent to the school at 501 S. Arlington Heights Road, Buffalo Grove, 60089, or to the district office at 999 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling, 60090. The checks should be made payable to "School District #21" and have "Friends for Erika Fund" in the memo section.
Free surfing: The Wheeling Park District introduced free Wi-Fi service at its facilities this month.
The Internet access is available at the Community Recreation Center and the Chevy Chase County Club.
Those who want to access the service must supply an e-mail address and follow the rules of usage, which are available at both facilities.
Leaders reaffirmed: The Wheeling Park District board recently elected the president and vice president for the 2008-09 year.
Tom Webber was chosen unanimously as president and Keith Pecka was elected vice president. They both served the same roles in the 2007-08 year.