There was bittersweet excitement in the air Saturday as Kathryn’s Krop 4 A Kure got underway at Georgetown District High School.
This year's scrapbooking event marked the first fundraiser since its namesake, Kathryn Stewart, passed away in 2022 at the age of 19 after battling cancer for much of her life. Yet, this only encouraged the Stewart family to continue her journey to help advocate and fundraise thousands for neuroblastoma research at Sick Kids Hospital.
“No family or child should go through what Kathryn went through. I want the gold ribbon (representing childhood cancer) to be as prominent as the pink ribbon,” said mother Heather Stewart.
Volunteers filled Georgetown High dressed head to toe with purple and gold. In addition to scrapbooking, the day’s activities included a book sale, silent auction, raffle, bake sale and 50/50 draw.
Coming back to scrapbooking this year after the event’s hiatus felt good for regular attendee Evelyn McLachlan. But, she said Kathryn's presence is so missed.
“It is fabulous to be back, but also difficult because we are missing Kathryn. I missed getting a hug from her when we came in and her incredible smile that is so contagious.”
Friends and family volunteer at the fundraiser to help make it a success. The early morning set-up may be tiring, but the group is fuelled by their love and care for Kathryn and the Stewart family.
Such is the case for one of Kathryn’s best friends, Gillian Langen, who said she’s happy to be back volunteering for the first time in three years.
“I feel amazed by the support from the community," she said. "Kathryn would have thought this was amazing."
For 14 years, Kathryn battled cancer with bravery and determination, but her journey is never over. It was always Kathryn’s intention to continue the fundraiser after her passing, as it was her mission to find a cure for others battling neuroblastoma.
For Heather, Greg and Geoffrey Stewart, it was essential to them to preserve her legacy and make one of her last wishes come true.
“We will keep the fundraiser going to keep her memory alive,” said Heather. “We are thrilled we were able to restart it, and we are thrilled that we were able to fulfill one of Kathryn’s last wishes.”
Donations are still being accepted and can be made at kathrynskrop4akure.ca or by emailing [email protected].
