Auxiliaries support kid-focused care and programs

While attending the Teck Acute Care Centre’s cement pour event in 2014, Bonne Nelson, chair of the Auxiliary to BC Children’s Hospital, recalled having the chance to write a message on a rock that would become part of the new hospital’s construction foundation. It was a special way to honour the Auxiliary’s $1 million gift to help make the new facility a reality.

“That was the start of the Auxiliary’s push to have a Sibling Centre in the hospital, so we all decided to write those words on the rock,” Bonnie said. “Through this act, we wanted our wishes for the Centre to physically be part of the hospital.”

It was a fitting gesture for the group of passionate volunteers who for decades have worked tirelessly to help elevate care for BC’s kids. And this winter, this vision will become a reality with a planned opening of the new space, which has been designed to engage and comfort the siblings of patients in the hospital.

Along with the BC Children’s Hospital Auxiliary, there are also three Auxiliaries on Vancouver Island that generously support BC Children’s: the Ladysmith Healthcare Auxiliary, Chemainus Healthcare Auxiliary and Port Hardy Hospital Auxiliary.

In addition to supporting spaces and equipment in the hospital, these auxiliaries fund programs that help comfort kids and families, like music therapy and therapeutic clowns. They do this through a range of creative ways, from running the hospital’s gift shops and thrift stores, to raising funds through clothing donation bins.

The commitment of these incredible volunteers is helping more kids receive the care they need to reach their potential.