Courage Park

Courage Park

Wellington Junior High School dedicated "Courage Park" in December, 2004.  This park, located just south of the WJHS football field, is dedicated to those who demonstrate extraordinary courage in the face of insurmountable odds.  Nick was an amazing example of courage as he fought cancer for over three years.  Nick was athletic, competitive, had a great sense of humor, cared about others
and fought incredibly hard. 
Sadly, Nick passed away on April 19, 2005. 

In May, 2009, two new student names were added to the celebration of courage in Courage Park.  Guillermo Orozco and Jonathon Lumpkin were added.  Guillermo battled back after suffering a brain aneurysim in our cafeteria.  His quote:  "Work hard and never, never give up," speaks to his hard work and energy.  Jonathon's quote is:  "People are not handicapped, they're handicapable."  Both young men  are currently attending Poudre High School as juniors. 

A little more about Nick Gaucher:

We are so proud of Nick and have dedicated each year to celebrate all he brought to WJHS.   A banner signed by Nick is on display in the 
multi-purpose room with Nick's motto: 

"Life is too short so why waste it sitting on the sidelines!"

WJHS staff and students purchased more than 400 Lance Armstrong "Live Strong" bracelets in support of Nick and his fight.  In May 2005, Nick 's best friend, Nathan Cooley and Nick's mom planted a tree that was donated in Nick's name at Courage Park.  In April 2006, over one hundred students, staff and friends of Nick's came to Courage Park and tied yellow ribbons to the park sign, each ribbon with a message to Nick or his family about him and how much he is missed.  In April 2007, hundreds of people wore ribbons designed by Ms. Highstreet and Ms. Davis, that read, "I can choose to worry or I can choose to live.  I choose to live." 
Stop by to see the impact that one young man has had on so many people. 
In May, 2008, Nick's friends will graduate from high school.  As part of their story at Wellington Junior High School, most of his peers signed a pledge to graduate from high school for Nick.  We will host an event to honor those who kept their pledge in April, 2008.   We miss Nick and always will.  

If you would like to know more about Guillermo or Jonathon, feel free to ask them!