It was an emotional few days for Jody and Dave Dugas.
November 13, 2024 was the fourth anniversary of the passing of their son Noah Dugas, who died of a stroke that sad day back in 2020.
On Thursday, November 14, the two visited Noah's former elementary school École élémentaire catholique Saint-Raymond located in the West Ferris area of North Bay as part of Noah Strong Jersey Day.
The Dugases were at the school to tell the sad yet inspiring story of their son Noah who died at the age of 13.
Jody Dugas told the story of Noah trying to do schoolwork while sitting in his hospital bed at Bloorview in Toronto.
While his health was failing, Noah developed a series of affirmations that became a daily reminder of his strength, love, and determination to overcome the many challenges that he faced.
Noah’s words included: "I am kind. I am strong. I am helpful. I can do hard things. I can reach my goals. I am a leader. I am resilient. I am brave. I am loved."
To honour Noah, and the foundation that has been created to continue his legacy, the school created a big Noah Dugas sign that will immortalize Noah in a gymnasium he used to play in.
"I think we should learn to be more like Noah, he was a great person," said grade six student Malie Morley-Hotto.
"I think his story is super inspirational because even when he was struggling in the hospital he was still thinking about his affirmations and those are great affirmations for him."
Kai Petch, a grade six student, believes Noah Dugas is an inspiration.
"I think he is because he was kind, he played sports, and was really nice with others," he said.
Dave Dugas was humbled by how the school recognized Noah and his 16-year-old daughter Jorja because of how well they treated other kids when they attended Saint-Raymond.
"It really ties in well to his affirmations and that is something that when Noah did that project at Bloorview that one day. It was this morning's class that he came back with that. To think that those affirmations have become such a big part of his story and his legacy is pretty remarkable and the fact they are going to continue to live on here for several years to come," said Dugas.
Noah Strong Legacy
Dave Dugas also reflected on the first jersey day where the community came together to honour Noah.
"I remember the first jersey day and hearing they were going to do a jersey day in memory of Noah. I remember going for a walk with the dog and seeing all the kids in the neighbourhood that were on their way to school and realizing that almost every single kid had a jersey on," said Dugas holding back tears.
The emotions continued after the visit to Saint-Raymond, as later Thursday afternoon the family attended Ecole secondaire catholique Algonquin, where Noah would have graduated high school this coming spring. It honoured Noah by retiring the #71 Barons jersey in his memory.
