Prince Albert Family Fundraises to Honor Late Son’s Memory

A mother from Prince Albert is spearheading a fundraising initiative to have a pediatric room at the upgraded Victoria Hospital named in memory of her late son, Kenna Cook Jr. Kenna passed away in 2023 just days before his second birthday, leaving his family with a deep desire to honor his life and legacy.

Trish Hart launched the campaign to raise at least $1,000 before the “Give a Little Life Day” radiothon scheduled for December 5, 2023. She hopes the funds will contribute to the hospital’s pediatric department, where her son spent significant time during his life. “My auntie said he was born very special and from the start it was a battle to live,” Hart explained.

Kenna, born in May 2021 with complex medical needs, brought joy to his family despite the challenges he faced. Hart fondly remembers his love for dinosaurs and the animated character SpongeBob SquarePants. “In the new ward, we really want dinosaur decorations and a specific room dedicated to him. The Boreal Healthcare Foundation said they could make it happen for us,” she added.

Hart expressed her gratitude towards the staff at both Victoria Hospital and the Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon, crediting them as essential to her family’s experience during Kenna’s treatment. “The Victoria Hospital is our lifeline in Prince Albert and across the North. Every dollar helps buy the equipment our doctors, nurses, and patients need, from modern beds to life-saving monitors,” Hart stated in her fundraising campaign.

The Boreal Healthcare Foundation has recognized Hart’s efforts, highlighting the courage and community spirit it takes to transform personal loss into hope. “This story touches all of us because the Victoria Hospital is our hospital. It’s where our kids are cared for, where our families turn in moments of need,” a representative from the foundation remarked.

The campaign reflects the broader community spirit, encouraging local families, schools, and businesses to participate. “Trish’s example shows that anyone in our community can step forward and make a difference. Every champion adds strength to Give a Little Life Day and brings us closer to equipping our hospital with the care our children and families deserve for the future,” the statement continued.

As the deadline for fundraising approaches, Hart remains hopeful that her efforts will not only honor her son’s memory but also enhance the care available at Victoria Hospital for future patients.

For those wishing to support the cause, Hart has provided links to the fundraising page, inviting donations and shares to help spread the word. “If you can donate, thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you can share this page, that helps too,” she concluded, emphasizing the importance of community support in this heartfelt endeavor.