Abbotsford, B.C (March 5, 2024): The 10th annual Gift of Love Gala presented by MNP welcomed over 300 hundred guests from across the Fraser Valley at the Abbotsford Centre on Saturday, March 2. The very special 10th anniversary event raised $600,000 to support the specialized program at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, the only pediatric palliative care provider for over 871 children and families in British Columbia and the Yukon.
The memorable evening was once again hosted by Every Conversation Counts author, Riaz Meghji, and featured exciting live and silent auctions led by auctioneer Fred Lee, incredible entertainment by the MEI Choir, Peggy Peat School of Dance, Musical Occasions string quartet, and dancing with DJ Marvel.
From left to right: Auctioneer Fred Lee and event MC, Riaz Meghji; Performers, Peggy Peat School of Dance
“We are so grateful for this generous community that joined us to celebrate this milestone 10th Anniversary Gift of Love Gala,” said Chief Executive Officer, Denise Praill. “This year we also honour 10 years of exceptional care being delivered from our Abbotsford hospice, Dave Lede House. Opening the doors to this second location exponentially increased our ability to provide care for children and families right here in the Fraser Valley and across the province. Our Gift of Love Gala co-chairs, Aprille Ferrario, Denise de Jonge, Suzanne Adams, and the exceptional volunteer gala committee contributed their creativity and passion and hosted a wonderful event. The evening was also made possible thanks to incredible Canuck Place volunteers who continue to support the gala each year. And of course, a special thank you to Canuck Place Parents Rebecca and Derek Van Oosterom, for sharing their story and son Ethan with us.”
From left to right: Gift of Love Gala Co-Chairs, Aprille Ferrario, Suzanne Adams, Denise de Jonge, and Canuck Place Family Speakers, Rebecca and Derek Van Oosterom
Canuck Place parents Rebecca and Derek shared the story of their baby boy, Ethan, who received end-of-life care at Canuck Place. Their stay at Canuck Place allowed Rebecca and Derek to focus on spending time together as a family while Canuck Place clinicians cared for Ethan’s complex medical needs. In the time they had left together, they were able to make meaningful memories, keeping Ethan close even after his passing. Rebecca and Derek continue to be supported in their grief by the Canuck Place counselling team.
Once the Canuck Place team stepped in, the entire experience of Ethan’s last few days alive changed for us and brought meaning to his life. This organization is an essential part of making you feel human as you deal with one of the most difficult parts of life.
Rebecca and Derek Van Oosterom
From left to right: The MEI Choir, Canuck Place Parents, Derek and Rebecca with Canuck Place Nurse, Doreen Landry and Canuck Place Counsellor, Natasha Zacher during the candle lighting ceremony.
From left to right: Rebecca, Brynnlee, Ethan (in frame), Derek, Miles, and Felicity Van Oosterom, Canuck Place Family
Attendees bid on exclusive auction items and supported Canuck Place care through Fund-A-Need. Guests also participated in a candle lighting ceremony in honour of Ethan and the children who have been cared for at Canuck Place over the past 29 years.
From left to right: Guests bidding during the Live Auction and Fund-A-Need
The funds raised from Gift of Love Gala will support the growing need for essential pediatric palliative care provided at Canuck Place. Last year alone, Canuck Place had a 63% increase in family members receiving overnight respite care in hospices, and a 31% increase in community-based care, which includes a 24-Hour Clinical Care Line, in-hospital, in-home, and virtual care. Through the generosity of the community, Canuck Place can continue to provide quality, interdisciplinary care to children with life-threatening illnesses and the families who love them. Canuck Place continues to raise 60% of its operating funds through community donors and corporate supporters including MNP, Graestone Ready Mix, Ledcor, Columbia Cabinets, and PFG Class. Together, they help families make lasting memories and give short lives the gift of great days.
Find high-res images via Dropbox, and for more information about Canuck Place, visit canuckplace.org.
GIFT OF LOVE GALA CO-CHAIRS: Aprille Ferrario, Denise de Jonge, and Suzanne Adams.
GIFT OF LOVE GALA COMMITTEE: Amy Badesha, Chrissy Nicholson, Christina Esposito, Emma Rose, Jessica Summers, Kam Riarh, Leisha Wiens, Miranda Hardy, Nikki Lundegren, Sarah Tremblay, and Tanya Georget.
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About Canuck Place Children’s Hospice: Canuck Place Children’s Hospice is BC and the Yukon’s pediatric palliative care provider. Over 871 children living with life-threatening illnesses and families from five provincial health regions receive Canuck Place inpatient and community-based care (in home/in hospital). Canuck Place operates 13 patient beds and 8 family suites through two hospices in Vancouver and Abbotsford. Services include in-hospice medical respite and family support, pain and symptom management, provincial 24-hour clinical care line, music and recreation therapy, education and art, grief, loss, and bereavement counselling, as well as end-of-life care. With donors, research initiatives, our talented team, patient family partners, and over 261 volunteers, we care for children with short lives and the families who love them. canuckplace.org
