Lockport teen hoping to help takeout cancer with curling fundraiser

SELKIRK — His time on the ice is usually spent chasing championships. But this Saturday, Shayne Merritt will be curling for a cure.

“Good people are going through such a horrible thing they don’t deserve to go through,” said the Lockport teen.

The Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School grade 12 student is taking on cancer with a fundraising bonspiel. Twenty rinks will square off at the Selkirk Curling Club in support of the Canadian Cancer Society.

“I love curling,” said Merritt. “I consider myself a curling geek. I knew it would raise a lot of money.”

So far, Merritt has raised $3,000 with more to come in. The cash will go towards those battling cancer like Lauren Dyck – Merrit’s coach, math teacher and friend.

“She’s a really caring person and someone that you can go talk to at any time with any issue,” said Merritt.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "She's a really caring person and someone that you can go talk to at any time with any issue," said Merritt.

Dyck was diagnosed with uterine cancer two years ago.

“I had surgery within the month,” said Dyck. “They got it really quick. They put me through chemotherapy as a precautionary. I’ve kicked it’s butt and moving forward.”

During her fight, Dyck continued to teach at Lord Selkirk Regional Comprehensive Secondary School. Her positive outlook inspired Shayne to start the tournament as part of a school project.

“It’s good to know that younger kids are willing to make a difference,” said teacher Kevin Lopuck. “They’re willing to go the extra mile and put the effort in so that they can make change in our community.”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "It's good to know that younger kids are willing to make a difference," said teacher Kevin Lopuck. "They're willing to go the extra mile and put the effort in so that they can make change in our community."

But more importantly, lend a hand to those they care about.

“It’s just knowing people are behind you and that if it doesn’t work out, they’ll come across and help you out,” said Dyck.

Merritt’s Curl for the Cure bonspiel begins at 8:30 a.m. The tournament is sold out but people are still welcome to drop by the Selkirk Curling Club to support the fundraiser. Various prizes, including a signed team Jennifer Jones jersey, are up for grabs in the silent auction. Defending provincial men’s curling champion Reid Carruthers will also be on hand to meet with fans.