After years in The Cridge R & R Family Services, one family reached out aroundChristmas time and shared the challenges they were facing. Louise was living with terminal cancer while caring for her teenage daughter, Phillipa, who is on the autism spectrum and has significant support needs. Her partner, Todd, was a devoted father figure to Phillipa and helped care for both Louise and her mother, who lived with the family.
With Louise unable to work and Todd dedicated to caring for the family, finances were stretched thin. Yet when we talked about Christmas wishes, Louise thought only of her loved ones. With a little encouragement, she finally named two things for herself: a pair of warm gloves for her always-cold hands and a soft blanket.
Louise’s greatest wish was to see Phillipa’s excitement on Christmas morning. That wish came true, and she was blessed with two more Christmases with her family.
Through the generosity of our donors, we were able to walk alongside them during an incredibly difficult time. We supported the family with basic needs, while also helping create opportunities to share joyful experiences and make lasting memories, including a trip on the Christmas Express train in Duncan and tickets to a Victoria Royals game.
As Louise approached her final Christmas, she was in hospital and unsure if she would make it to December 25th. Our staff visited her and were deeply moved by her strength and extraordinary grace. Through everything she was facing, Louise continued to express gratitude – for her life, for her family and friends, and for the people who had stood beside her along the way. She reminded us that even in the most difficult circumstances, there can still be moments of joy.
Louise was truly inspiring, and we were deeply saddened to learn of her death this spring. Her family remains connected to us, and we continue to support them whenever we can.
This story reminds us that sometimes, a gift is more than meeting a need. It can create a moment of joy, a cherished memory, or simply the chance to enjoy one more Christmas morning together. And it reminds us that when we come together side by side, we can help families feel supported, cared for, and less alone during life’s most challenging seasons.
