Community raises funds for KenJi

By Joan Janzen

It’s been said it takes a community to raise a child. The Kindersley community is doing just that, by helping out Kenji Garcia and his family during a challenging time. On March 25th, Kenji was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML). Kenji is in Grade 2 and loves drawing, singing and playing outdoors, and is responding well to his treatment at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon.

Kenji Garcia is currently receiving treatment at Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital in Saskatoon.

The community of Kindersley and area are rallying around Kenji, his mom Carmela Tai, his father Ron, stepdad Airon, his sister Kiera and his little brother Kyjin. Jeff and Anna Santos, owners of Swirl Cafe, stepped up and received donations for a silent auction. As a result, forty-two items were donated by businesses, families and individuals.

Bids were accepted from April 17th to 22nd, with all proceeds going towards Kenji’s medical expenses and to support the family. Jeff reported approximately $3500 was raised from the auction, with more than $1,000 collected in donations. A GoFundMe is also underway, initiated by Carmela’s employer at Best Western Plus Kindersley Hotel.

In a social media post, the family expressed their sincere appreciation. “The support and love we have received so far has been truly mind-blowing. We feel blessed and honoured to have such wonderful friends and families in our corner, and pray that God blesses you all in His infinite wisdom. We truly believe that Kenji is tougher than this cancer.”

And all Kenji’s friends, family and people in his community wholeheartedly agree!