On February 2nd, the Lady Vikings basketball program held their 2nd Annual “Vikings vs Cancer Day.” On this day, the entire Village School community was encouraged to wear pink to unite behind a common goal to help raise awareness. The amount of support from our community was overwhelming. Students, faculty, and parents generously contributed and showed the impact we can have. The night culminated with a Lady Vikings district basketball game. At halftime of the game, the team stood at half court while Head Coach, Doug Brotherton, thanked the crowd for their incredible support and the contributions that were made. He also recognized one of our Village School faculty members, Diane Staff. Diane is a Kindergarten teacher at The Village School who is courageously battling cancer. Anyone who knows Diane understands that she displays the type of “Servant Leadership,” which we try to instill in each of our athletes. Despite everything going on in her own life, Diane continues to make it her mission to serve her family, friends, students, and co-workers. The Lady Vikings went on to win the game, but the greatest victory was the impact we had as a school to help raise awareness and donate to an organization that will help a family get the necessary treatment and service they need.

At Diane’s request, all proceeds from the T-Shirt sales, admission, and concessions from that day went directly to The Rose Houston. The Rose Houston is an agency that helps affected women by providing financial relief to ensure quality health care and treatment. With the incredible support of the Village School community, the Lady Vikings were able to donate a check in the amount of $3,400 in Diane Staff’s name. On June 2nd, the Lady Vikings and Diane presented the check to Shannon McNair, a representative of The Rose Foundation. It was a touching moment, and comforting to know that the money raised will be best served to help a person and family who needs it.

Thank you to our Village School community for helping raise awareness and for your generous contributions. Because of your help, someone will receive the treatment they need to assist them in their own recovery. It takes a Village.