Interior Health’s Swan Valley Lodge in Creston is the latest benefactor of a $5,000 gift to the East Kootenay Foundation for Health’s Starlite campaign, after Rob and Dennis, sons of Henry and Josephine Gay, took a unique approach to honour the lives of their parents who both passed away within a year.
During one of his many visits to Swan Valley Lodge, Rob came across a recognition piece featuring names of individuals and families who had donated to the facility. Staring right back at him were the names of his grandparents and parents. For the Gay family, the tradition of giving has taken place for many years and has assisted in providing either medical equipment or patient comforts items for the Creston residential care facility.
“When Rob and I discussed our family’s legacy of commitment to the Swan Valley Lodge, we immediately thought what an incredible way to honour our mother and father,” said Dennis. “Together with our families, the gift to EKFH and its Starlite campaign was a beautiful way to show how proud we are of our family, especially our parents and grandparents.”
The $5,000 gift will be put to use to purchase an item that will provide some support for the residents and their families. EKFH is currently working with the residential care team at Swan Valley to identify an item that will improve the quality of comfort for residents.
Honouring a life or a memory with a gift to health care is a tribute that lights a path for others. For the Gay family, the lighting of two of the small stars currently shining atop the East Kootenay Regional Hospital has a special meaning and shine brightly in tribute of two very special people, Henry and Josephine.
EKFH’s Starlite campaign has received gifts of many kinds in memory, in honour of, in thanks and in support. The campaign continues until the end of January, and donations can be made at www.ekfh.ca.
—EAST KOOTENAY FOUNDATION FOR HEALTH