Former Surrey student Joshua Sloan goes the extra mile in memory of educator Debbie Kovacs

Former Surrey student Joshua Sloan is running 100 miles to raise money for cancer research in memory of his former education assistant, Debbie Kovacs, who passed away in 2015. (Photo by Iyslen Leano)

Joshua Sloan may have crossed the finish line at Simon Cunningham Elementary years ago, but not a day goes by that he doesn't think of his former education assistant, Debbie Kovacs.

The 27-year-old Sloan, who has Down syndrome, fondly remembers Kovacs, who taught him from Grades 2 to 7 and became his running partner during his last two years at Simon Cunningham. Though Kovacs passed away from cancer in 2015, her guidance and friendship inspired Sloan to set a personal goal of running 100 miles in two months to raise $20,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society in support of multiple myeloma cancer research and programs.

"She taught me how to read, how to spell, how to do math and how to run cross country," said Sloan, who added that running with Kovacs also inspired him to participate in the Special Olympics. "She'd always tell me, 'You are a champion,' and we'd sing 'We Are the Champions.'

"She was a great friend to me, and this is why I go for runs now."

Joshua Sloan, pictured here when he was in elementary school, with his beloved EA Debbie Kovacs, who inspired him to run 100 miles in two months to raise funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.

Sloan has almost reached both his running and fundraising goals, having already run an astounding 90 miles and raised more than $15,000, with significant donations from the Surrey Fire Fighters' Charitable Society and two Chipotle locations. He recently hosted an event with friends, family and Surrey fire fighters, following his and Kovacs' running route from Simon Cunningham to Bear Creek Park.

"I feel really great that I'm doing this for her," he said. "I think of the times we ran from the school to Bear Creek and it makes me feel great. I'm thinking of her and the good times we had, and it's a good thing for me."

His mother, Lynn Sloan, said the fundraiser is "an amazing cause to remember an amazing teacher," but also to recognizes Kovacs' lasting impression on Joshua and how teachers can touch the lives of their students, even years after they've graduated.

"I'm proud of him that he wants to do this," said Lynn. "The impact of a good teacher is lasting. She didn't just help Joshua, she helped many students and we've had several from her past write to us and express how much she meant.

"Debbie and all the other teachers at Simon Cunningham were wonderful and helped Josh to be who he is today."

To read more about Joshua's goal or to donate, visit his fundraiser page on the Canadian Cancer Society website.