Fight Like a Patriot
"Together We Fight To Kick Cancer"
"Together We Fight To Kick Cancer"
By Emma Sutton
The JCCS “Fight Like a Patriot” tradition is one that is dear to our hearts. Each year the school hosts a “Fight Like a Patriot” volleyball game along with a week full of activities to spread cancer awareness and raise money for cancer research. All money raised from the fundraising activities goes to support the Ochsner Foundation in their cancer research and prevention endeavors. As a result, thousands of dollars are donated every year thanks to the generosity of the students and parents of JCCS.
This event was first started by the volleyball team several years ago and has since served as a way to support those who have been impacted by cancer. Past games have been dedicated to certain members of the Patriot family including former teachers Ashley Rickner (who was diagnosed with leukemia in 2013), and Mike Robertson (who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2013). Although they both lost their battle to cancer, we know that they have found their way to be with the Lord. Through “Fight Like a Patriot” we continue to honor them and help others fight. This tradition not only helps raise money, but it helps keep the memory of the ones lost alive.
Shoe Day/Raising Cane's Fundraiser
JCCS kicked off Fight Like a Patriot Week with a “shoes of your choice” day. This day allowed students in grades 7th-12th to wear whatever shoes they wanted if they donated $2 to cancer research. Not only was this a nice break from our regular shoe policy, but it helped raise money for the Ochsner Cancer Foundation. Additionally, Raising Cane's hosted a fundraiser with 15% of all sales being donated to Ochsner.
11th and 12th Grade Homeroom Volleyball Game
On Tuesday, JCCS had their highly anticipated intramural volleyball game. Each of the 11th and 12th-grade homerooms competed intensely against each other. Many of the teams went all out, making their own team shirts and dressing up as coaches. This game was a lot of fun for the students and was a great way to show support!
Pajama Day
On Wednesday, students had the opportunity to dress down in their favorite pajamas. Many students donated five dollars to cancer research and came dressed in their most comfortable PJs.
Fight Like a Patriot Game/Volleyball Senior Night
On Thursday, JCCS had their annual Volleyball Pink Game. Each year, the gym is packed full of students and families who paint the gym pink for cancer awareness. The event started with the 7th and 8th-grade intrasquad game which was followed by the JV and Varsity game vs McGehee. At the start of the Varsity game, the seniors and their families were recognized and presented with a personalized cut-out. Many of the players also presented flowers to honor cancer survivors and remember those who lost their battle. Both the JV and Varsity teams played very well and defeated McGehee. Throughout the games, the Patriot Nation Men’s Club sold delicious food and the Patriot Ladies Club held raffles and door prizes. All of the money raised from these clubs, as well as the admission and 2022 Pink T-shirt money, was donated to the Ochsner Foundation. The night was ended with the “Walk Beside a Patriot” tradition, where people walked around the football field, remembering loved ones who were impacted by cancer.
ChicK-Fil-A Pop-Up
JCCS ended off the week with their first-ever chick-fil-a pop-up! Students were able to order delicious items such as chicken nuggets, a chicken sandwich, waffle chips, a chocolate chip cookie, lemonade, and sweet tea. What was even more exciting was that students got to enjoy their meal for a whole hour if they donated money to cancer research.