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Kelowna student spreads joy with a wagon full of gifts

Jenae and Dr. Alex van Duyvendyk delivered presents to Kelowna’s pediatric unit on Dec. 24
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Jenae and Dr. Alex van Duyvendyk delivering gifts at Kelowna General Hospital’s pediatric unit (KGH Foundation)

A Kelowna high-school student brought the holiday spirit to sick children.

On Dec. 24, Jenae and family-friend Dr. Alex van Duyvendyk, an Interior Health physician, wheeled a wagon full of gifts through the pediatric unit of Kelowna General Hospital to deliver toys to kids and their families.

“I just wanted to bring a little joy and cheer to kids when they might need it the most,” said Jenae, “I know from experience what it’s like to spend the holidays in a hospital bed and I thought this would be a nice surprise and distraction for these kids.”

Jenae has been fundraising since the fall when she approached Dr. van Duyvendyk for help with her gift-giving project.

“We know what it’s like not to be home for Christmas and wanted to bring a little surprise and joy to the kids staying at KGH this holiday season,” says Dr. van Duyvendyk who has been a patient over the holidays herself.

Jenae’s generosity resulted in smiles, giggles, and squeals of delight that lit up the pediatric unit, lifted spirits, and brightened everyone’s day.

READ MORE: UBCO grads launch heartfelt campaign to support Kelowna General Hospital cardiac unit

READ MOE: Central Okanagan Hospice Association finds way to ‘hug’ healthcare workers


@Rangers_mom
Jacqueline.Gelineau@kelownacapnews.com

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Jacqueline Gelineau

About the Author: Jacqueline Gelineau

I'm a reporter in the beginning stages of my career. I joined the team at Capital News in November 2021...
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