Saanich ultra-swimmer raises exceptional funds for Canuck Place with an epic swim attempt across the Georgia Strait.
Vancouver, B.C. (August 12, 2024): Jill Yoneda made waves of impact for Canuck Place Children's Hospice through her attempted 109km swim across the Georgia Straight.
On August 9, Saanich-based swimmer Yoneda set off on a record-breaking 109km swim across the Georgia Straight in support of Canuck Place, BC and the Yukon's only pediatric palliative care provider, caring for 920 children with life-threatening illnesses and the families who love them. Yoneda swam a route that has never been attempted before in memory of her cousin, Joshua Yoneda, who died from a malignant tumour in his spinal cord.
Jill Yoneda preparing for her swim across the Georgia Straight
Yoneda’s swim was cut short after 15 hours in the water due to health complications, but the impact she made was epic nonetheless. Yoneda and her volunteer crew were greeted at Jericho Beach on August 10 by fans and staff and volunteers from Canuck Place, celebrating her incredible 40km feat and raising over $52,000 (and growing). The funds from this year's swim will also be generously matched by the Vancouver Canucks. In years past, Yoneda had raised over $19,000 through ultra-swims supporting care for children and families on the Canuck Place program.
Interview Requests: Interviews with Jill will be made upon request. Contact Avery Nicholson, Communications & Marketing Manager, Canuck Place Children's Hospice
Photos and Video Footage: Find via Dropbox
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About Canuck Place Children’s Hospice: Canuck Place Children’s Hospice is B.C. and the Yukon’s pediatric palliative care provider. Over 920 children living with life-threatening illnesses and families from five provincial health regions receive Canuck Place inpatient and community care (in home/in hospital). Canuck Place operates 10 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 dedicated volunteers, we care for children with short lives and the families who love them. canuckplace.org
Media Contact: Avery Nicholson
avery.nicholson@canuckplace.org | 519-365-0561
avery.nicholson@canuckplace.org | 519-365-0561
