Rory Renwick Receives Community Award

At the Regular Council Meeting held on May 13th, 2024, Council, in collaboration with CHEO, had the distinct privilege of recognizing Rory Renwick with a Citizen Recognition Award for her remarkable leadership and courage during a recent incident.

Rory Renwick, a student aboard the bus involved in the unfortunate collision with a transport truck on April 22, 2024, demonstrated extraordinary courage by assisting the 11 other children onboard, ensuring their safe evacuation from the scene.

“Rory is a living proof of the impact one person can make, no matter the size or age. After the collision, Rory sprang into action to ensure the emotional and physical wellbeing of other on the bus were met. She provided comfort and reassurance to the younger children while they waited for the first responders to arrive. At 11 years old, Rory is a reminder to us that we possess the potential to make a difference” shared Interim Mayor Jamie Laurin. “I would also like to recognize team CHEO, you sprang into action without hesitation… we are extremely thankful that your facility is there in our greater community when we need it.”

Council Chambers was filled with a sense of admiration and gratitude as attendees, including representatives from CHEO, the Upper Canada District School Board, Russell Public School, school families, and friends, gathered to celebrate Rory's selfless actions.

In addition to honoring Rory Renwick, Council also took a moment to commend the 11 children on the bus for their resilience and bravery during what was undoubtedly a frightening experience for them.

“As EMS arrived and debriefed with our staff, we heard stories from the scene. There were about kids helping kids. And we heard about the unwavering composure and determination that was on display in what must have been chaos and uncertainty. They remained calm under pressure and demonstrated a level of maturity far beyond their years. We hear of how they stepped up to care for one another. It’s an honor to be here today to recognize the group and Rory Renwick” shared Tammy DeGiovanni, Senior Vice-President, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive at CHEO.

Furthermore, Council extended heartfelt appreciation to all first responders and bystanders who provided assistance during this and other local emergencies, highlighting the importance of community solidarity during challenging times.

For more information about the Township of Russell Citizen Recognition Program, please visit our website.

Shown in the photo in no particular order are Rory Renwick and the 11 children on the bus (Jake, Nathan, Levi, Amir, Chloe, Christopher, Nicholas, Daphne, Dylan, Serenity and Willow), Tammy DeGiovanni (CHEO Senior VP, Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive), Jennifer Proulx (CHEO VP, Child Development and Community Services), Karen Macaulay (CHEO VP, Acute Care), Ron Ferguson (UCDSB Director), Susan Rutters (UCDSB Superintendent), Corina Parisien (UCDSP Trustee), Nichola Bond (Russell PS Principal), Erin O'Rourke (Russell PS Vice-Principal), Brian McBain and Ian Courville (Fire Chief & Deputy Fire Chief for Russell Township Fire Services), Millie Bourdeau (Director of Public Safety en Enforcement), Jamie Laurin (Interim Mayor), Lisa Deacon (Councillor), Marc Lalonde (Councillor).