ELORA – Addison Hill has died.
The teenager, who was diagnosed with angiosarcoma cancer last year and was the inspiration for a successful fundraiser on the weekend for research into sarcoma cancer at Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital, died on July 10.
Addy, as she was known, turned 14 on July 8, the first day of the two-day Family Fun Day event at Centre Wellington District High School in Fergus.
While Addy was too ill to attend herself, her parents Jessica and Dave did attend for a while, and on July 11, Jessica Hill said in an interview she is so grateful for the support shown by the community.
“What a mix of feelings. I’m still riding high from the community support on the weekend,” she said, adding she thinks the fundraiser will top $200,000.
“(Addy) wanted to make it to the event. She held on to the last moment. She knew it had gone well and she was proud.”
But doctors had already delivered the news a month ago that Addy had just weeks to live.
“We’re still dealing with her passing. It’s hard. But to feel the love and support from the community is very moving. I have no words,” said Hill.
Addy leaves behind her parents, her sister Alyssa, extended family and a strong circle of friends.
Hill said $100,000 was raised for sure at the fundraiser, but there’s still money coming in.
As well, Kat Florence donated a ring worth $26,000 to the cause and Hill said Team Addy is printing 1,000 raffle tickets and will be selling them for $50 each for the rest of the month.
“So I think the fundraiser could bring in $200,000, but we don’t know that for sure,” Hill said.
Details on Addy’s funeral have not been finalized either. Hill said information will be posted at the Team Addy Facebook page once they are.
But the family plans on making Family Fun Day an annual event, to raise awareness and funds for sarcoma cancer.
“We want to honour Addy and raise awareness. And the community really pulled together,” Hill said.
Hill posted Addy’s passing on the Caring Bridge Facebook page.
“It is with heavy hearts that we honour and say goodbye to our perfect angel Addison,” Hill wrote.
“Our earth angel now has her wings to fly free. We love you most sweet pea!”
For more information, visit facebook.com/teamaddy8.
