Photo courtesy Kerry Alec / Facebook
HOSPICE FUNDRAISER

Young boy raises thousands in memory of great aunt

Feb 2, 2021 | 2:49 PM

BURNS LAKE – The Prince George Hospice Society is commending the fundraising efforts of a Burns Lake boy who raised thousands in memory of his great aunt.

It has been just over a year since 10-year-old Dalton West lost his great aunt Roberta at the Prince George Hospice House.

The passing of his great aunt inspired a fundraising campaign and led Dalton to grow his hair for a year as part of a Carrier tradition to signify the passing of a loved one, and grieve them.

“We are honouring our Mamma Robbie by donating $3,760 to the Prince George Hospice Society, and thank those who helped me achieve and exceed my goal,” says Dalton

Dalton’s mother Kerry says his great aunt Roberta was like a second mother to him, a very important figure in his life for the teaching of cultural traditions.

“She was a Teachers Assistant at Morris Williams Elementary (Lake Babine Nation School), and she taught the kids many cultural traditions there,” says Kerry. “She loved kids.”

Dalton had an initial goal of $1,000 but after receiving countless donations exceeded his goal by over two thousand dollars.

Dalton and his mom Kerry say Mesiy C’o for the continued love and support from the community who contributed to the cause.

The Prince George Hospice Society says they are blessed and grateful for Dalton’s donation.

Roberta Alec was 62 when she passed away last year.