Megan Gallant Benefit held Sunday Nov. 25 at the Sooke Community Hall

The people of Sooke rallied in support of a benefit to raise funds to help bring a Sooke girl home from the hospital.

The Sooke News Mirror of Nov 28 reported event raised "more than $11,000"
Megan Gallant, a 16 year old Edward Milne Community School (EMCS) student has spent the last 8 months in hospital after oxygen was cut off to her brain during a minor diagnostic procedure at Victoria General Hospital. It has left her unable to talk or walk.

The Lioness ran a cake walk coordinated by Audry Wilson. Among other service groups to support the event were the Smokettes the Fire Department, the Sooke Quilters, and a host of other volunteers, groups and "just ordinary folks" who donated items to the silent auction. Music was performed by Sooke's homegrown bluegrass group: T-Jac, Eric & Mary Day, Jordan Walsh, Michael Kraft and Country Musician Johnny Pimm.

EMCS Student's council members Emily Rudd and Rob Burns organized face painting. Among the many supporters, local entrepreneur and EMCS 2001 Grad, Caprina Valentine donated "in support of a fellow student". Lots of students and friends of Megan's attended.

Local B&B operators, stores and private citizens donated in order to make the fundraising a success! Among these was Carrie Ollett, convener of the tea, and advertising by the Sooke News Mirror contributed to the success of the event.

Donations are still welcome:
Anyone wishing to make a monetary or other donation can contact Elida Peers or trust fund bookeeper Shirley Vowles

Story contributed by: Linda Gordon, Bluescreen Studio