Nebo's "Super Wade Crushes Cancer"

“Super Wade Crushes Cancer” is the theme of Art City’s Elementary Penny War that took place to help Wade Farr in his fight against Lymphoma.

Wade Farr, a sixth-grade student at Art City Elementary in Nebo School District, is known for his smile and enthusiasm for life. He is beloved by his friends, teachers, and classmates. Last May, on the last day of school, Wade was diagnosed with Lymphoma. After several months of chemo treatments, Wade returned to school around the beginning of October, only to have the cancer return several weeks later. The cancer is now being treated more aggressively and Wade is anticipating a bone marrow transplant at the beginning of the new year.

Wanting to do something to help support Wade in his fight against cancer, students and teachers at Art City Elementary banned together to participate in a “Penny War”. Penny Wars are instigated to help raise money for a cause. Each class competed in the Penny War, hoping to help in any way with Wade’s medical costs. Dollar bills and pennies earn points for classes while silver and gold coins take points away. In an effort to win, students flooded opposing classes with silver and gold coins, while adding pennies and bills to their own. The friendly competition lasted two weeks, and the students never let up on their enthusiasm for the contest.

At an assembly at the end of the contest, the amount on money raised was revealed. Through the Penny War, $8,490.60 was raised. All proceeds from the Penny War went to Wade and his family to help with medical costs. This money allowed the Farr family to start the new year fresh, with no medical debt. Everyone in attendance at the assembly gave Wade a standing ovation.

Principal Lisa Muirbrook said, “It’s been really good for the whole school. All the kids in each grade have band together to help Wade. In all my years in education, I have never been a part of something so incredible.”

Wade’s sixth-grade teacher, Katie Shumway, said, “This has been incredible, absolutely incredible. Wade is a fighter!  He is always smiling, and has smiled through this whole thing. It’s an example to all of us. He is an integral part of our class, for sure, and our school.” She encouraged Wade, “Stay positive. Stay strong. We love you!” 

Wade’s mom and computer specialist at Art City, Sheriece Farr, said, “I am just overwhelmed, amazed, and stunned at the kindness, generosity, and love that has been shown to us. It’s been truly amazing. This is the best place and the best school in the whole entire world.”