By Adam Brazeau
CORNWALL, Ontario – Eamer’s Corners Public School students want their classmate Sean Cowan to know he’s not alone. Not by a long shot.
After being diagnosed with leukemia on January 20, school staff started an awareness campaign called Yellow Kisses for Sean, along with a Facebook page (www.facebook.com/YellowKisses).
It went viral overnight and already has over 5,700 followers.
Ingrid Snydal, Cowan’s Grade 6 teacher, said the goal is to convince Hershey Canada to make a yellow-wrapped ‘Kiss’ to be sold at fundraisers in honour of the 11-year-old, and other youth suffering from diseases.
“We’re all rooting for Sean,” said Snydal.
“It’s really about him – and how much of a boost it gives him. He checks the page all the time and comments about how he’s doing.”
She described Cowan as an amazing boy and a wonderful student who regularly volunteered with kindergarten students and in the school’s canteen.
So far over 450 letters and numerous e-mails have been sent to Hershey Canada.
“Just knowing the whole school is behind him and the campaign has gone worldwide and different schools are participating, he’s realizing how important he is to everyone,” said Snydal.
A Yellow Kisses for Sean Facebook post on March 4 said Cowan is in remission and his treatment regime is on the right track. It also noted that his next round of treatments began on March 3 and he will be splitting his time between the hospital, Ronald MacDonald House, and home.
According to the Facebook page, if all goes as hoped following the next six months, Cowan will have at least another three years of taking oral chemotherapy treatments and regular tests to ensure that the cancer does not re-occur.
Snydal said the colour yellow was chosen for the campaign because of the brave statement made by Cowan’s mom, Susan, when he was first diagnosed: “when life gives you lemons, I guess you make lemonade.”
Eamer’s Corners Grade 6 student Jabishan held a piece of paper cut into the shape of a ‘Kiss’ with a special message during an interview with Seaway News: “Sean you are my best friend forever.”
Cowan’s entire class is reeling from his absence, but his presence can still be seen throughout the facility. The school holds two fundraisers a month for the kids to participate in.
This March, green shamrocks and ‘gold’ coins are being sold for 25 cents. Messages of hope are written on the shamrocks and posted across bulletin boards, trailing down one hall to the next.
“Just knowing the whole school is behind him and the campaign has gone worldwide and different schools are participating, he’s realizing how important he is to everyone,” said Snydal.
A few of his classmates told Seaway News how they feel about the situation.
“Sean has leukemia, so it’s important we help him get through it,” said Kaitlyn. “It makes me sad and depressed, but I’m happy we’re all working together to help.”
Emma added: “Sean is nice and kind. He’s really good with kindergarten students as well, helping them get on the bus. And when you need a friend he’s always there.”
The Eamer’s Eagles hockey team won a championship game last week and dedicated the victory to Cowan. Players wore yellow jerseys in tribute to Cowan.
