The Southern Alberta Ronald McDonald House will receive a donation of over $2,000, thanks to the fundraising efforts of Kaelyn Austin Vance.
While visiting her grandparents, Dwayne and Denise Ludwar, the nine-year-old spent time at the Creston Valley Farmers’ Market this summer, selling sunflowers, dill and Swiss chard, along with bracelets she made with Rainbow Loom, raising $1,027.25 — which Alberta oil and gas company Nexen will double.
“We were all very excited when we heard that,” said Kaelyn’s mom, Rachelle Austin.
One of Kaelyn’s best friends, Creston seven-year-old Isobel “Izzy” Nixon, has been staying at Calgary’s Ronald McDonald House regularly since being diagnosed with a brain tumor last December. Kaelyn, who lives in Calgary, visits her often, enjoying the special home away from home, which has a library, toys and more.
“I like the craft section and the games,” said Kaelyn. “We went to play bingo, and if you got something, like a blackout or a straight line, you’d get a little prize.
Kaelyn discovered Rainbow Loom — a plastic loom used to weave coloured rubber bands into bracelets and charms — about two years ago, and began weaving bracelets to sell to her class as a fundraiser for Alberta Children’s Hospital.
“I really wanted to raise lots of money for people that have to do treatment,” she said. “There are so many kids that have been going to treatments and scared to do stuff.”
“It made her discover her love for helping others,” said Austin.
Last year, Kaelyn and her brother Cohen started fundraising by selling raspberry jam to neighbours and family. They continued this year, after Izzy’s diagnosis, and ended up earning $69.55, which they gave to Izzy to buy whatever she wanted.
“I felt bad that she’s going through a hard time,” said Kaelyn. “I want to take care of her. I know she feels scared sometimes.”
And however Kaelyn next decides to express her generosity, her mom and dad are happy to support her.
“I’m very honoured to have such a special little girl,” said Austin.
