The last quarter of 2023 was marked with notable change and unwavering support. In October, we bid a sad, but friendly farewell to our administrator/organizer extraordinaire of over 5 years, Marissa Dunbar. In her place, we welcomed, Trish Shirra, who you will come to know over the next few months.
Through this transition, the generosity of Balding for Dollars community remained strong. On Oct. 6th, Jayden Lee, completed his final check-up at BCCH and celebrated the momentous event by running home 166km afterwards! His inspiring efforts raised a whopping $85,156 for the BCCHF, $20,000 of which went directly to Balding.
In early November, our supporters Victoria, Julianne and family held their 4th Music in the Neighbourhood concert at the North Delta Centre for the Arts. The event raised over $2,700. Later that month, we collaborated with our friends at Nature Bee Goods who sold out of their featured Allarie dishcloths that raised $1,000.
December was equally inspiring with the help of the BBots crew who held a Holiday Hip Hop show for kids at the Islands Café in White Rock. And finally, The Heine Family spread some holiday warmth and raised over $5,000 through their annual Christmas cookie drive – the funds were used to provide “Warm Bears” for our inpatient families over the holidays.
It goes without saying that we wouldn’t be here without the support of our amazing community of families, staff and friends. We look forward to the year ahead and the excitement that is to be 2024!