When Diane’s daughter, Brooklyn, was born, the joy of welcoming her into the world was quickly overshadowed by concern. Brooklyn faced significant medical challenges with a unilateral cleft lip, bilateral soft palate, and severe esophageal and bladder reflux – causing issues with breathing and feeding. At just four days old, she was medevac’d from Vernon Hospital to BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver, where she would need specialized, life-saving care.
For the next two and a half years, Easter Seals House became their refuge. Diane recalls their first night vividly: “I arrived late in the evening in an unfamiliar city, overwhelmed by the day’s events. But the staff greeted us with smiles, helped with our luggage, and made us feel at home. It was a moment of comfort in an otherwise chaotic time.”
Arriving in Vancouver without a car, Diane found the location of Easter Seals House invaluable. “I could walk everywhere—doctor’s appointments, grocery stores—it was such a relief not to worry about transportation,” she says. The affordability and proximity to the hospital allowed her to focus entirely on her daughter.
A Place to Build Connections
Easter Seals House wasn’t just a place to stay; it became a second home for the young family. Diane and Brooklyn found a strong community of support, bonding with other families facing their own medical journeys. “We barely ate in our rooms,” Diane shares. “We cooked, shopped, and celebrated together. We became each other’s support system, sharing everything from baby showers to holiday dinners.”
The caring staff also played an integral role. “They were like extended family,” Diane says. “They even babysat Brooklyn when I needed to run errands. With the immense preparation needed to take Brooklyn out even on a short trip, their thoughtful gestures were a tremendous help.”
A Time of Joy and Loss
Despite the challenges, Diane ensured their time at Easter Seals House was filled with positivity. “You can either make it a negative experience or a positive one,” she explains. Holiday seasons were especially memorable, with decorations and festivities bringing cheer to all. “We had so much fun—it’s what kept us going.”
One day, Brooklyn fell ill with the flu, which quickly escalated to pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she passed away. Diane recalls, “In her 2.5 years, she touched more lives than some do in a lifetime. She radiated love and goodness.”
During the holiday season, families like Diane’s find comfort and stability at Easter Seals House, where they can share moments of joy and connection even in the midst of challenging times. Your generosity ensures this vital support continues, bringing hope and relief when it’s needed most. This season, give the gift of warmth and care—donate today, because every dollar counts.
