CENTRE WELLINGTON – Whether it be fundraising, education or awareness around sarcoma, the story of Addison Hill and the work she began will carry on.
Jessica Hill’s daughter Addison Hill, known as Addy, was a 14-year-old from Elora who died earlier this summer after being diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called angiosarcoma in 2021.
During that time, Addy became a SickKids ambassador and rallied the community to raise funds for sarcoma research at SickKids hospital through a Family Fun Day fundraiser in July, apparel sales and auctions.
The total raised by Team Addy ended up being $212,568 going towards Dr. David Malkin’s sarcoma research at SickKids Hospital.
Jessica said in a phone interview days after the cheque presentation that it was a moving event to present such a big amount of money raised in honour of her daughter.
“What made us feel even better is knowing that wasn’t just a drop in the bucket, it is actually going to go towards something that is meaningful and towards his research and it will change someone’s course of action to have something done,” Jessica said.
“He (Dr. Malkin) said ‘it’s a significant contribution that will make a difference.’ That just gives me more drive to keep going because that was a very powerful statement that he said to me.”
And Jessica will be carrying on the work her daughter started.
Elora Public School, where Addy went, will be holding a Team Addy day which Jessica compared to a Terry Fox Run day.
“It’s an active day, they’re gonna have an option to play basketball as well, it’s a day for activities and for the kids to learn about her story as well, her journey,” Jessica said.
“Terry Fox had his journey and it's relatable, right? Especially with it being a sarcoma cancer.”
The Guelph Basketball Association has also put a yellow ribbon on their jerseys this year and Jessica said families are invited to donate as well.
“There’s no words for the amount of support we’ve been receiving from our community and extended community,” Jessica said.
There is also a preliminary plan in place to hold another Family Fun Day next July.
“She created this legacy and I just want to keep going with it,” Jessica said. “I know she’ll never be forgotten.”
