Annual fundraiser goes virtual, raises $8,000

KINGSVILLE — The 6th annual Super Ethan’s Steps fundraiser for childhood cancer was a little different this year, but they managed to raise $8000 for the Paediatric Oncology Unit at Windsor Regional Hospital, despite dealing with COVID restrictions.

The annual fundraiser, which began in 2015, has raised awareness about the disease and over $55,000 for children and families in Windsor-Essex affected by childhood cancer.

In 2014, young Ethan Abdul-Massih was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. His parents, Nicole and Charlie spent a lot of time taking Ethan to his treatments and visiting the unit at the hospital.

Ethan endured three-and-a-half years of treatment for his disease, completing his last treatment in 2017. Nicole and Charlie started the fundraiser to help others.

Nicole, Ethan and Charlie Abdul-Massih have worked hard over six years to raise over $55,000 toward fighting childhood cancer.

“As a family who has been touched by childhood cancer, we understand how long those days can be,” says Nicole. “We understand how emotionally draining it can be.”

With September being Childhood Cancer Awareness month, the event has been organized at the end of September each year and includes a walk through Kingsville from Lakeside Park. Following the walk, they did family activities, served snacks and refreshments and had a raffle table.

Due to COVID this year, they opted to turn the event into a virtual one, with participants walking, biking and running with their family and friends on September 27. They also had a virtual raffle table.

“Our goal is to help provide some comfort, care and smiles to children visiting the clinic due to their cancer diagnosis, as well as their family and loved ones who are with them there,” said Nicole.

She was quick to point out the generosity of the local community, who have had a hand in helping them raise that $55,000.

“None of this would ever be possible without the support of our Windsor-Essex community, who continue to amaze us with their kindness and generosity,” said Nicole.