Ella, a spunky six-year old Saanich girl, was diagnosed and treated for a brain tumor a little over two years ago. The radiation and chemotherapy appear to have been successful in eradicating the tumor, but have resulted in some degradation in her hearing and a possible permanent loss of hair. She continues to visit Children"s Hospital in Vancouver twice a year for an MRI procedure to check on the effectiveness of the treatment.
Ella is captivated by fairies and often searches for them in her back yard. Her mom, Kim, contacted Help Fill a Dream to see if we could assist with fulfilling Ella"s dream to establish a "Fairy Garden" in her backyard. HFAD contacted Integral Design Landscaping and Peninsula Coop, who jumped at the opportunity to partner on the project. Integral and their suppliers donated labor and materials, while Peninsula Coop provided financial assistance, volunteers and lunches for the landscape team. It was a real community effort as other friends, family and business associates contributed to create a magical, whimsical space for a child"s imagination to run wild and parents to sit and quietly reflect.
The dream "reveal" occurred Sunday, May 23rd with Ella receiving the "key" to her garden in front of friends, family and the volunteers. The primary focus of the event was a celebration of one little girl"s persistence and courage in battling this disease and her successful prognosis. It was also a celebration of a tight-knit family; Dad Daryl, Mom Kim, and little sister Greta, who grew closer in the face of adversity and rallied around Ella in their support. Challenges like this can bring a family closer or, often, tear families apart and Help Fill a Dream recognizes and applauds the family for their faith and spirit. It keeps with our slogan hope happiness and help for families of children with life-threatening conditions and we were grateful to be a part of the fulfillment of Ella's dream.