Photo credit: globalnews.ca
A local business owner in Lethbridge is urging the community to rally around an 11-year-old girl in need of open-heart surgery.
Linda Nowak, the owner of Wax Me Ltd., discovered a fundraising initiative while shopping for pet food at Feed Sam, a pet store owned by Valerie and Burton Hoyt, Elizabeth’s parents. The fundraiser is aimed at supporting Elizabeth Hoyt, who was recently diagnosed with a congenital heart defect that was not detected at birth.
Nowak felt a deep connection to Elizabeth’s situation, having faced her own heart challenges. “I was just 12 years old when I had my first cardiac arrest decades ago,” she recalled. “Since then, I’ve undergone over 20 heart surgeries, including several open-heart operations. When I learned about Elizabeth, it resonated with me on a very personal level, as I fully understand the family’s struggles.”
Reflecting on her own experiences, Nowak felt compelled to offer assistance. “If someone had been there to support my family during our difficult times, it might have made a significant difference,” she shared. “I believe we are all here to help one another, and I hope to play a role in making a positive impact on this family’s journey.”
In a proactive step, Nowak and her team at Wax Me Ltd. will host a “brow-a-thon” on May 4, where 50 percent of the proceeds from eyebrow waxing services will be donated to the Hoyt family to help cover Elizabeth’s medical expenses.
Nowak is also encouraging other local businesses to join the cause. “I challenge other establishments to pitch in, whether it’s through haircuts or any means available to assist this family,” she stated. For clients who are unable to attend the event, there is a donation jar at Wax Me Ltd. dedicated to collecting funds for Elizabeth.
Get weekly health news
Stay informed with the latest updates in medical news and health information every Sunday.
In addition to her health challenges, Elizabeth is an accomplished cheerleader and shows dogs at a competitive level. Her active lifestyle makes her diagnosis all the more surprising for her parents. Valerie Hoyt remarked, “As an active girl, you wouldn’t expect such news, especially since she showed no symptoms. Doctors have warned that if not addressed by the time she turns 18, there’s a high risk for serious complications.”
Elizabeth herself expressed uncertainty upon hearing the news but is eager to move forward. “Initially, I felt scared about the surgery and healing process,” she admitted. “But once I considered it, I became excited. As long as everything goes well, I believe the outcome will be positive.”
The Hoyt family expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of community support. “It’s astounding to realize how much support we have around us,” Valerie said. Elizabeth’s surgery is scheduled for May 27 in Edmonton, followed by a significant recovery period that will require the family to take a minimum of two months off work.
“Post-surgery, she will face many restrictions and won’t be able to use her hands for quite some time,” Valerie detailed. “Additionally, we’ll have multiple trips to Calgary Children’s Hospital, making this a challenging journey.”
In a bid to raise further funds, the Hoyt family has partnered with Young Spirit Supplies Direct to Film (YSSDTF), a local custom apparel business, to create and sell “Proud Supporter of a Heart Warrior” T-shirts. The proceeds from these shirts will go directly to Elizabeth’s medical fund.
“These shirts can be personalized; we want to let Elizabeth know she isn’t alone on this journey,” stated Valerie, who wore a “Proud Mom of a Heart Warrior” shirt in support of her daughter. “Everyone has the option to customize their shirt; it can say ‘proud dad,’ ‘proud supporter,’ or any variation they choose.”
Those who purchase a T-shirt are encouraged to upload photos to a dedicated Facebook page, allowing Elizabeth to see the community rallying behind her. “Whether someone opts to order a shirt or simply sends a message of encouragement while she’s in recovery, we want her to feel the love and support surrounding her,” Valerie emphasized.
Proud Supporter of a Heart Warrior T-shirts can be acquired through the YSSDTF website, and encouraging messages or photos can be shared on the Heart Warrior Elizabeth Facebook page. Donations can also be sent via e-transfer to heartwarriorelizabeth@gmail.com.
Source
globalnews.ca