The late Emmy Duff
The Northlea Elementary and Middle School biannual blood donor clinic will take place Monday, April 20, 2015. This first such clinic was organized in 2003 in response to the diagnosis of leukemia in not one, but two Northlea students. The efforts of volunteers and ordinary Leaside citizens extended the lives of these two young people and helped many others. But it was a losing battle for Emily Elizabeth Duff, who died in September 2012 having been originally diagnosed at the age of seven. She fought a courageous battle and inspired thousands with her cheerful spirit and hard work. Here is what is said on the website of the scholarship established in her name. It gives you all the reasons you need to find time to get over to Northlea School on Monday between 2 and 7 p.m. “Throughout her journey, Emmy’s remarkable spirit inspired those around her. With her never-failing strength and positive outlook, she embraced life at every turn, including her time away from home as a university student at Laurier. Emmy was a fundraising advocate for a number of causes, sharing her story with those that were important to her, including childhood cancer organizations, as a Sick Kids Ambassador, for Canadian Blood Services, L.U.C.K at Laurier, and Look Good Feel Better. Em will be remembered most by all who knew her as a thoughtful and caring friend. Emmy was an extraordinary young woman with a courageous spirit and love for life. This scholarship will not only ensure that Emmy’s memory is carried on but also provide the opportunity for others in similar situations to live out their goals and further their education.”
