Editor,
On Saturday, Dec. 8, the Broke Buckle Clothing Company held a fundraising dance and silent auction with the Heart and Stroke Foundation being the chosen charity.
The reason for this choice was because of losses in our family and group of friends in recent years.
Caroline’s mother and my mother were admitted to hospital within days of each other last year. Caroline’s mother passed quickly of heart issues.
My mother lingered for more than a year having suffered two heart attacks and what the doctors described as a “devastating stroke”.
On the morning of the event, I was called to the hospital as my mother’s time was short. At 8:30 that night she passed away.
I raced back to Hope and entered the Legion where the event was held. It was clear that my mother’s passing was already known.
Feeling the need to address the people who joined us in fundraising I publicly toasted my mother and was joined by all, who raised a glass in respect.
We then, in true western fashion, proceeded to celebrate life by dancing, feasting and enjoying each other’s company. It could not have been better.
Although the event was not sold out, those that attended were some of the best citizens of Hope. These people came to raise funds and enjoy themselves and did so wonderfully. We could not be more thankful.
This event was registered with the Heart and Stroke Foundation. There is an account under ‘Hoedown for Heart’ being overseen by Hope CIBC.
We are leaving this account open until Christmas Eve. Those who may want to donate can do so there or at the Broke Buckle Clothing Company. Receipts will be given.
Though some may have tried to smear us, we were blessed by the citizens of Hope.
In the words of Hank Williams Jr, “you can’t stomp us out and you can’t make us run.”
Thank you from Trapper and Caroline Kuiper and all of us at the store.
Merry Christmas.