ASHLAND — Ashland High School’s “Lunch Bunch” program organized a “Day of Courage” on May 14 to recognize and support people who are dealing with cancer.

It was also a way to support classmates who might have friends and family battling cancer.

Part of the funding was from money provided by a grant received from the Ashland County Community Foundation’s Impact Youth Council. Private donations also provided support. 

The “Day of Courage” was the culmination of a week-long awareness campaign leading up to May 14. In the days prior to the event, Chuck Benway, science teacher and “Lunch Bunch” advisor, spoke with students in both lunch rooms letting students know that an orange bandana would be made available to them in Arrow Time, free of charge.

Arrow Time is AHS’s version of homeroom, where students meet each day to complete homework, study or to visit with other teachers.

During his visits with students, Benway explained how wearing the orange bandana would show support to classmates who, in some way, had their lives impacted by cancer. Students were encouraged to wear the bandana as a head covering, as a wristband or they could tie it to their water bottle or backpack.

Students were encouraged to wear their bandanas respectfully, making sure that they were aware of their classmates.  

Students and teachers estimated that the overall number of participants was at least 500 or more. The show of support helped bring unity to the staff and students and students expressed an interest in making the “Day of Courage” an annual event.

They explained how different colors could be offered, especially pink for Breast Cancer Awareness month in October.