Council, alongside the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), recognized Rory Renwick, 11, with a Citizen Recognition Medalion for her leadership and courage during the recent incident involving the bus and transport truck collision on April 22.
“There’s not a day that goes by that we’re not left in awe about the resilience and the power that we see in our children and youth. But then there’s these kinds of kids and these kinds of events that really stop us in our tracks. April 22 was one of those days and Rory is a prime example of that,” said Tammy DeGiovanni, a senior vice-president at CHEO, at the council meeting.
Renwick, a student aboard the bus during the incident demonstrated courage as she assisted the 11 other children onboard and ensuring their safe evacuation.
“Rory is a living proof of the impact one person can make, no matter the size or age,” said Interim Russell Mayor Jamie Laurin. “After the collision, Rory sprang into action to ensure the emotional and physical wellbeing of others 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.”
The acting mayor also took the time to recognize the team at CHEO, who “sprang into action without hesitation” and extended his appreciation to all first responders and bystanders who aided during the emergency.
During the council meeting, the room was filled with representatives from CHEO, the Upper Canada District School Board, Russell Public School, school families, and friends, to gather to celebrate Rory Renwick’s selfless actions.
In addition to honoring Rory, Council took a moment to praise the 11 children, Jake Vaughn, Nathan Vaughn, Levi Helmer, Amir Sakhizadeh, Chloe Butcher, Christopher Butcher, Nicholas Butcher, Daphne Geisler, Dylan Geisler, Serenity Geisler, and Willow Geisler-Harper who were on the bus. They each received each a certificate of courage from CHEO for their resilience and bravery during the incident.
“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 the face of what must have been chaos and uncertainty,” said DeGiovanni. “They remained calm under pressure and demonstrated levels of maturity far beyond their years. We heard of how they stepped up to care for one another and of one remarkable woman who led the efforts to organize, communicate, and selflessly help the others. It’s an honor to be here today to recognize the group and Rory Renwick.”
