The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to embrace the spirit of giving than by supporting a wonderful cause that brings together the community, local businesses, and organizations? The BC Children’s Hospital Foundation Festival of Trees fundraiser is back, and it’s time to get excited! This heartwarming event not only spreads holiday cheer but also raises funds for an incredibly vital cause.

Festival of Trees is a beloved annual event that unites people in support of the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. The centerpiece of this festive occasion is the beautifully decorated trees, generously sponsored and creatively adorned by businesses and organizations. These stunning trees are put on display for all to enjoy, infusing the holiday season with warmth and goodwill. It’s a magical experience that not only brings smiles to faces but also contributes to saving lives.

A worthy cause

This year, the funds raised from the Festival of Trees will be dedicated to oncology research at BC Children’s Hospital. The importance of this cause cannot be overstated. In British Columbia, 150 children are diagnosed with cancer each year, and more than 11,000 outpatient visits are made to BC Children’s Hospital. The hospital conducts over 7,200 chemotherapy and immunotherapy infusions and performs 40 bone marrow and stem cell transplants annually. These numbers emphasize the significant role the hospital plays in the lives of children facing the challenging journey of cancer treatment.

“The support from donors provides kids in BC access to today’s newest therapies and enables the development of tomorrow’s more effective treatments. As the Interim Director, and as a father, I am personally very grateful to donors for their generosity and support.”

Dr. Chris Maxwell, Interim Director, Pediatric Hematology & Oncology Research, and The Michael Cuccione Childhood Cancer Research Program, BC Children’s Hospital

Currently, 80 percent of children with cancer in the province overcome their disease, which is indeed remarkable progress. However, it’s essential to remember that this still means 20 percent of these children do not survive in the long term. BC Children’s Hospital is at the forefront of pediatric care and research, striving to improve these statistics. They are leading the way in innovative research for pediatric cancers, working tirelessly to provide better outcomes, minimize side effects, and limit complications.

The children receiving care at BC Children’s Hospital are often facing the most serious and complex health challenges. They rely on the hospital for specialized care that is not available elsewhere in the province. The dedicated experts at the hospital are committed to ensuring that these young patients receive the best possible healthcare, and your generosity can make a world of difference in their lives.

How we can help

So, how can you make a meaningful impact this holiday season? By supporting the Festival of Trees fundraiser, you can help advance groundbreaking research, leading to more targeted therapies and better treatment outcomes. Your contribution will not only bring hope to the children living with childhood cancers but also provide a brighter future for countless families across the province.

The Festival of Trees kicks off on November 16th at The Bay Centre downtown, where you can witness the enchanting display of beautifully decorated trees. These trees are a symbol of hope and the spirit of giving, reminding us all of the true meaning of the holiday season. As you stroll through this festive wonderland, you’ll be inspired by the creativity and compassion of the businesses and organizations that have come together to support BC Children’s Hospital.

If you’re eager to show your support, you can donate online by visiting this link: https://fundraise.bcchf.ca/fundraisers/thomsonrooftreatment. Your contribution, no matter how big or small, will make a difference in the lives of these brave young patients and their families.

As the holiday season approaches, let’s come together as a community and light up the hearts of those in need. The Festival of Trees is not just about beautifully adorned Christmas trees; it’s about bringing hope, healing, and happiness to children who deserve nothing but the best care. Your support is a gift that will keep on giving long after the holiday season is over.

This year, let’s make the holidays truly special by participating in the Festival of Trees and helping BC Children’s Hospital Foundation make a difference in the lives of the children who need it the most. Together, we can ensure that every child diagnosed with cancer receives the best possible healthcare and that their futures are filled with the promise of better treatments and brighter days ahead. Visit The Bay Centre, experience the festive wonder, and be a part of this heartwarming cause.