Washingtonville community comes together for Wizards Against Cancer

The Washingtonville community came together Friday, Oct. 9, for an evening of breast cancer awareness and recognition as Wizards Against Cancer hosted its annual Breast Cancer Awareness Parade ahead of the varsity football game against Wallkill. Check out photos from the day here! 

Dressed in pink and carrying signs of support, participants representing schools across the district joined Wizards Against Cancer club members, staff, administrators, Board of Education members, students and families for the parade. Cheerleaders and other community members gathered to cheer them on.

At halftime, Washingtonville High School Assistant Principal Robert Shust led a special recognition honoring four members of the Washingtonville community who have been affected by cancer.

Erin Calovic, Christine Manngard-De La Cruz, Alicia Mazariego and Jennifer Czumak were recognized on the field alongside their families as Mr. Shust shared each honoree's story with the crowd.

For Mr. Shust, who has undergone cancer treatment himself, the evening was especially meaningful.

"What really stuck with me throughout the evening was the effect that a cancer diagnosis has on so many family and friends," he said. "When I went through my own cancer treatments, I never wanted to be a burden on anyone else, I went alone."

His experience gave him a deeper appreciation for the support surrounding the four honorees Friday night.

"But I learned and it was shown in full force on Friday night, that no one should fight alone," he said. "The outpouring of love and support from family, friends and our students was very emotional for me."

Mr. Shust said he was grateful to play a part in recognizing the women and the people who have supported them throughout their experiences.

"I was so happy to play a small part in recognizing these four women for their courage and seeing them surrounded by so many people who have worried about them, prayed for them and loved them through it all," he said. 

The Wizards capped off the evening with a 35-7 victory over Wallkill, marking their third consecutive win and improving their season record to 5-1.

The Wizards Against Cancer Club will continue its efforts on Sunday, Oct. 18, at the annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk at Woodbury Common. Students, staff, families and community members are encouraged to join the district's team in support of breast cancer awareness and research.

Those interested in participating can sign up and join the Wizards Against Cancer team.