Sandusky High School “Sweetheart Fundraiser” Supports Purchase of Respiratory Equipment at McKenzie

Erin Carlson and George Lasecki, teachers and NHS advisers at Sandusky Junior/Senior High School, love sharing with students the power of philanthropy and giving back to the community. As part of the school’s annual Sweetheart Week, the National Honor Society and Sweetheart Court Candidates raised money and awareness for respiratory conditions, including a generous donation of $650 to McKenzie Health System to support the purchase of additional respiratory equipment.

“This group warms our hearts every time we learn of their generosity and commitment to their community and, this year, we are incredibly grateful for their support,” said Billi Jo Hennika, Chief Operating Officer at McKenzie Health System. “When students learn how a little effort can go a long way toward making a better community and world, it is a lesson that takes them beyond school learning into something they can put to use throughout their lives. We are honored that Erin and George and Sandusky High School students dedicated their efforts to supporting the mission of McKenzie.”

As part of the Sweetheart Week fundraiser, the high school students requested that the McKenzie Health System create videos to raise awareness about COVID respiratory complications, educate on the dangers of vaping, and provide information on the respiratory equipment for which they were fundraising.

The Sandusky High School students and employees participated in a week-long change drive—with the seniors coming in first at $290—and dedicated each “dress-up day” to colors that raised awareness for various conditions. Tuesday was Wear Red Day for heart disease, followed by Wear White Day for lung cancer awareness, Thursday was Wear Blue Day for pulmonary fibrosis and Friday was Wear A Hat Day for a $1 donation to McKenzie Health System.

“I am incredibly proud of the young people we have in our school. Their desire to make a positive impact on the people around them is truly inspiring. Helping others learn more about lung issues and raise funds for needed equipment was a wonderful thing for them to be a part of,” Carlson added.