Two locals have banded together to host a spaghetti dinner fundraiser and auction to raise funds for six-year-old Shyanne Osmond, who is scheduled to undergo several surgeries and procedures to treat a condition called an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) — the growth of veins and arteries in her upper lip and mouth.
With support from the community, Chris Inglis and Stephanie Rogers hope to raise between $15,000 and $20,000 for Shyanne’s family.
“They’ve got such a long road ahead of them and I know how the expenses can add up,” Inglis said. “It’s a good cause [and] we’re going to try to make it a fun evening.”
Several community organizations have already stepped forward to assist with costs for the dinner, including the Fernie Senior Citizens Drop In Centre. The non-profit organization’s president Jim Booth stepped up and offered to rent out the Community Centre after Inglis discovered the venue could only be rented out to a non-profit organization on an annual basis ,and reached out to the community for support.
The United Steelworkers USW local 9346 also offered to cover the costs associated with the clean up and insurance.
Other event supporters include Fernie’s Overwaitea, Extra Foods and Back Country Meats & Sausage, organizations that have agreed to assist with the cost of food.
Inglis admits that once he reached out to the community, the support that filtered in was astounding.
“Once the word got out there, it was a little overwhelming,” said Inglis. “All the help we can get is really good.”
Nearly 70 local businesses have also risen to the challenge and agreed to donate products and services to the silent auction.
Despite this initial support, Inglis said he was disappointed in the turn out at the volunteer meeting that was held at the Park Place Lodge on Monday, January 5. With only four in attendance, Inglis raised concern over the event’s support.
“Lets hope the community gets out and supports this,” he said, adding that his hope is to have between 300 and 400 people attending the dinner.
Another volunteer meeting will be held at the Park Place Lodge’s Mount Fernie Boardroom on Monday, January 12 at 6 p.m.
The Smiles for Shyanne Fundraiser Spaghetti Dinner and Auction will be held at the Fernie Community Centre on Saturday, January 24 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For more information contact Chris Inglis at 250-423-1428, ingy88@telus.net or Stephanie Rogers at 250-423-3944.