Inside Montreal’s Edward Murphy Elementary school, sixth-grader Violette Ramirez is turning yarn into somethin bigger.

Violette is taking part in the Canadian Cancer Society’s February knitting challenge — a nationwide initiative in support of cancer patients.

“I really wanted to help people who are going through cancer, and help them survive, so I wanted to help find a cure for it,” said Violette.

Sixth-grader Violette Ramirez knitting a blanket in support of the Canadian Cancer Society’s February knitting challenge, Feb. 23, 2026. (Deirdra Danovitch, CityNews)

Throughout the entire month of February, Violette has committed to knitting every single day, creating handmade items to raise funds for patients and their families, turning a diagnosis that touched her family into a mission to support others.

“We’ve lost a lot of people dear to us and a lot of people also going through cancer close to our family,” said Violette. “I’m hoping to inspire people to change and help others who are going through a hard time.”

Violette is one of more than 3,000 participants across the country taking part in the annual fundraiser. Violette’s mother, Tania Martial, said she couldn’t be more proud of her involvement.

“It’s been deeply emotional and I’m full of pride as a parent to see your child lead this kind of initiative upon herself. She took it upon herself to actually do this,” said Martial. “As soon as Violette heard about the cause, I could see she was determined to help in any way she could.”

Tania Martial, Violette’s mother, inside Edward Murphy Elementary school, Feb. 23, 2026. (Deirdra Danovitch, CityNews)

Violette’s mother taught her how to knit nearly four years ago. Now, Violette frequently makes blankets for her family members. She explained that the process is highly soothing, and has always been an activity she could turn to for relaxation and pleasure.

Martial explained that cancer has had a real and deep impact on their family.

“Violette has witnessed firsthand how cancer can affect a patient’s journey, and their loved ones as well,” said Martial. “So, she wanted to make sure she can help.”

And Violette’s leadership doesn’t stop at home; it’s also observed at school. Christina Chilelli, the principal at Edward Murphy Elementary school, said Violette acts as a role model and her presence is always felt in a positive way.

“It shows the other students, or any other child her age, that if one person can make a difference regardless of their age or cause, that they too can make a difference,” said Chilelli, going on to describe Violette as a student who leads by example. “We’re very proud of Violette and I’m very proud to call her a student of Edward Murphy school.”

Christina Chielli, Principal at Edward Murphy Elementary school, Feb. 23, 2026. (Deirdra Danovitch, CityNews)

Funds raised through the Canadian Cancer Society go toward research to better detect, treat, and prevent cancer, while also providing information and assistance for patients and families nationwide. Nearly $800,000 has been raised so far in support — a resounding success according to Ashley Thorpe, organizer of the social fundraising challenges for the Canadian Cancer Society.

“We have people from coast to coast who are sharing what they are knitting and asking their friends and family to donate to them to raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society,” said Thorpe. “The knitting and crocheting that people are doing across the country and the amount of money they’ve raised has just been absolutely phenomenal.”

While February is coming to an end, Violette’s impact won’t, saying she’s eager to continue leading by example, and encouraging others to create positive change. “Any small gesture can make a big impact,” said Violette.

Martial hopes Violette’s story will inspire others, and make them realize that age doesn’t make difference. “You can be a leader at any age and what’s important is to lead with compassion.”

Other fundraising initiatives through the Canadian Cancer Society are also available throughout the year.