Southeast Cancer Support Services (SCSS) is launching a new initiative called Wishes of Hope.
The program focuses on granting wishes for children with cancer in the Southeast area — whether that be a new toy, a bedroom makeover, meeting a hero, or going on an exciting experience.
All about hope
Executive director of SCSS, Cindi Rempel Patrick, says the program is meant to bring joy to the children.
“When you’re diagnosed with cancer, especially a child, the whole family is, in essence, diagnosed with the disease,” says Rempel Patrick.
“The air is thick in the house, there’s a different climate, a different feeling, a different atmosphere, and you live in that all the time.”
She explains how a wish can help lift some of the emotional weight and bring hope.
“It gives hope and something to look forward to, and it makes that whole journey much more pleasant and bearable.”
A caring, close-knit community
The initiative was sparked by Ben Townsend, father of three and owner of Dynamic Chiropractic and Sports Therapy Center in Steinbach. He and his wife had been long-time fans of The Dream Factory – an organization supporting sick kids across Manitoba.
“We thought it would be nice to be able to do something a little closer and be more involved in our communities... here’s an opportunity to do something right here, right at home,” says Townsend.
Townsend says that he had a goal in mind of how much he wanted to raise. With just a few texts to the business community, the goal was doubled — and Wishes of Hope was born.
“There’s probably nothing tougher than watching your kid suffer... this will bring a little bit of joy into their lives and create memories that are going to last forever,” says Townsend.
Rempel Patrick is grateful for the financial and hands-on support from Townsend and the other team members at SCSS.
“We’re very fortunate for the support.”
Granting wishes
There are 88 communities in the Southeast, and anyone living in that region is eligible to nominate a child diagnosed with cancer.
Rempel Patrick says the process for nomination is quick and easy.
“You have the opportunity to go to our website, or give us a call, and nominate a child. Of course, you need the permission from the (child’s) family in advance, but it’s as simple as that.”
Rempel Patrick explains the donations make an instant and meaningful impact. Once the nomination is made, SCSS connects with the child and begins making their wish a reality.
“We make hope happen.”
Visit the SCSS website for more information about the Wishes of Hope initiative and how you can help sick kids in our community.
Written with files from Carly Koop and Adi Loewen