Ellis Elementary students had a message Friday for a classmate fighting brain cancer.

“We love you Bailey. We want you to come back,” said teacher Su Ann Jewell’s entire kindergarten class in unison.

Bailey Bennett had surgery to remove a cancerous brain tumor in January. He is unable to attend class while he undergoes chemotherapy and radiation treatments to fight the cancer.

Ellis and Howard Elementary students wore gray clothes and gray ribbons Friday in support of Bennett and to raise awareness for brain cancer. They also donated money to aid Bennett’s fight.

Bennett, 5, paid a visit to his classmates at Ellis on Feb. 3.

Jewell’s eyes welled up as she talked about his return.

“When he walked through the door it was like a breath of fresh air,” Jewell said. “He is a wonderful student. He’s a happy little boy, loves school and has a lot of friends.”

One of Bennett’s classmates, Lexi Troup, said she wore gray “because we all want Bailey to get better.”

“We want Bailey to come back to school. We miss him,” classmate Kade Barkman said.

Jewell does not know when Bennett will be well enough to return to Ellis.

A benefit for Bennett will be held Saturday, March 3 at the American Legion in Buchanan, 403 E. Front St.

A spaghetti dinner offered from 4 to 7 p.m. will be prepared by Chef Daysha Amster of Olfactory Hue Bistro in Niles. Cost is $7 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under.

There will be music, dancing and a cash bar with music by Scott Zavitz at 8 p.m. A silent auction will be held throughout the evening.