‘For My Ouma” memories inspire to Give Back

Submitted by EKFH on 07-05-2012

Cranbrook, BC… Over the next few weeks the A Clear View ~ digital mammography campaign will receive a unique gift through a personal fundraising initiative all because of a woman’s desire to remember a grandmother she never got to know.

Local Cranbrook resident Marina Simons recently paid a visit to East Kootenay Foundation for Health with an idea in mind.

With tears in her eyes, Marina shared stories about the difficulty of losing her Ouma at age 53 and the challenge several other family members have had with the impact of breast cancer.

As Marina completed her story next came the biggest smile and a declaration; “I want to honour my Ouma and have decided to make my own personal statement for the A Clear View campaign.

On Monday, May 7 I shall colour my hair pink as a tribute for my Ouma and all others who have been affected by breast cancer. On my birthday, May 25 I will proudly have my head shaved in honour of my Ouma’s courage and positive outlook she had during her journey.”

And at that moment the plan was set into action. Next to come was the talented Kristen Knight from the Vanity Room who joined in the cause and took Marina’s beautiful silken hair to an eye-popping pink (not for the faint of heart but looks great on Marina). With her hair colour in place, her letters in hand Marina is now asking you to get behind her and the “For My Ouma” fundraiser.

The arrival of a new digital stereotactic mammography unit will help the East Kootenay Regional Hospital become a centre of excellence in breast cancer screening and diagnostics.

The Marina Simons “For My Ouma” story is just another in the influence on families who have a loved one affected by breast cancer. EKFH wishes to acknowledge the continued support of Dr. Gertjan & Marina Simons and their children for remembering a grandmother held so dearly in their heart.

You can make a donation to the A Clear View ~ digitial mammography campaign by going on-line at www.aclearview.ca (select donate now, honour Marina Simons and the A Clear View Campaign), dropping off a gift at the EKFH office or through Canada Post to 13 24th Ave N, Cranbrook, BC V1C 3H9.