Father Honours Daughter’s Memory with a Special Gift

April 30, 2018

After reading about the June 23rd Vandermeer Father Daughter Ball, Tom Groot was emotionally moved. Having recently lost his adult daughter Avryl to cancer, he wanted to honour her memory by helping another dad and daughter make happy memories of their own.

Tom reached out to Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation and made a financial donation to support not only the attendance of a dad and daughter, but also provided financial support to round out the experience with perhaps new clothing or a hair appointment.

“I had just re-connected with my daughter a year and a half prior to her passing,” Tom shared. “Unfortunately, things happen, and although Avryl and I had lost touch, I never stopped trying to re-connect with her. I’m so grateful I was finally successful because I was able to lend a hand when she was diagnosed with cancer. Helping by driving her to and from medical appointments served to strengthen our relationship,” he continued.

“Before she passed away, I made a promise to keep in touch with my granddaughter, Stella, and I’m proud to say we have a great relationship in spite of the fact we don’t live close to each other. When I read about this event, I thought it would be a great way to honour my daughter’s memory and I hope to inspire others to do the same.”

“We have partnered with Rebound Child & Youth Services in order to provide this opportunity for not just one but a few daughters and their fathers to enjoy an evening of wonderful food, dancing and memories to last a lifetime” says Natasha Jacobs, Special Events and Communications Assistant at Northumberland Hills Hospital Foundation. “We are so touched and honoured to receive such a meaningful gift for these families, and I want to thank Tom for his generosity.”

For more information on the Vandermeer Father Daughter Ball visit HERE.

View all