Pupils at St Gregory’s Catholic Academy in Stockton-on-Tees have shown compassion, generosity and community spirit by raising hundreds of pounds for a local chemotherapy unit after being inspired by the experiences of a classmate whose mum is undergoing cancer treatment.

As part of the school's annual Enterprise Day, Year 6 pupils at St Gregory’s Catholic Academy in Roseworth organised a range of fundraising activities, raising an impressive £717. While some of the money was used to support end-of-year celebrations, including a trip to the cinema, the pupils decided they also wanted to give back to a healthcare team that had made a difference to one of their own families.

The class donated £150 to the chemotherapy unit at the University Hospital of North Tees, where the mother of Year 6 pupil Jude has recently received treatment for breast cancer.

Supporting a Cause Close to Their Hearts

Eleven-year-old Jude and his classmates chose to support the chemotherapy unit after seeing first-hand the care and support provided to his family during a challenging time.

Explaining why the class wanted to make a donation, Jude said:

“I don’t want anyone to end up in the situation that my mam was and I don’t want it to be stressful for anyone.”

The thoughtful gesture highlights the caring values and strong sense of community that are central to life at St Gregory’s Catholic Academy.

A Family’s Cancer Journey

Jude’s mam, Lisa Dixon, discovered a lump in October last year and sought medical advice after encouragement from her daughter.

Lisa said:

“I found a lump in October. The only reason I found it was because it was itchy. It was actually my 15-year-old daughter who told me to go and get checked. I did and was referred straight away to North Tees where I was seen within two weeks.

“I had a mammogram and biopsy on the same day and they told me I had breast cancer.”

Following surgery earlier this year, Lisa began chemotherapy treatment in March and recently celebrated completing her course of treatment by ringing the hospital's bell, with Jude proudly by her side. She is now preparing to start radiotherapy treatment.

Meeting the Team Behind the Care

Jude, alongside classmate Luca and teaching assistants Alyson and Joanne, recently visited the chemotherapy unit at the University Hospital of North Tees to present the donation and meet some of the healthcare professionals who supported Lisa throughout her treatment.

Lisa praised both the hospital staff and the school community for their support.

“The team has been brilliant. I really couldn’t thank them enough.

“And it’s lovely what the school has done. They’re a great class, gorgeous kids, really canny. People have been really kind.”

Jennie Gibbs, Chemotherapy Unit Manager, thanked the pupils and staff for their generosity.

“It has been a privilege to support Lisa throughout her treatment, and it was wonderful to hear how inspired Jude and his classmates were to help others.

“We’re so grateful to the pupils and staff at St Gregory’s Catholic Academy for their generosity and we wish Jude’s class all the best as they move on to secondary school.”

Living Out Catholic Values Through Action

The fundraising efforts of Year 6 pupils demonstrate the values of compassion, kindness and service that St Gregory’s Catholic Academy encourages in its school community. By choosing to support a local NHS chemotherapy unit, pupils not only raised money but also recognised the importance of helping others during difficult times.

As Lisa continues her treatment journey, she hopes her experience will encourage others to pay attention to their health and seek medical advice if something does not feel right.

“Check your boobs. It’s so important, especially if you’ve got children. I’m so glad I went when I did.”

Proud of Our Year 6 Pupils

Everyone at St Gregory’s Catholic Academy is incredibly proud of the Year 6 pupils for their kindness, empathy and determination to make a positive difference in their local community.

Their fundraising success serves as a powerful reminder that even small acts of generosity can have a meaningful impact on the lives of others.