Roberts Creek – Sunshine Coast residents and sisters, Amy and Sarah Turnbull, are taking on a 30-day challenge to celebrate the life of their father who has been diagnosed with ALS. Their goal is to raise $15,000 for charity, and go on a 5km run, walk or hike every day for the month of June.
It’s been nearly two years since Sarah and Amy’s father, John Turnbull, was diagnosed with ALS, a motor neuron disease that causes the nerves within the brain to slowly break down. The disease has progressed quickly and since last fall he has lost his ability to walk and stand.
“It’s beautiful to watch my daughters run this campaign for their father,” said their mother, Lynn Chapman. “They are using their mobility for a good cause. He can’t move so they are using their mobility for him.”
Arising from a feeling of powerlessness in watching their dad go through the daily struggles of the disease, Amy and Sarah started the challenge to celebrate and honour his life and everything that he has taught them about kindness, selflessness, caring for others and gentleness. Their campaign also takes place during ALS Awareness Month, and leads up to the launch of the Sunshine Coast Hospice’s Hike for Hospice, taking place on Saturday, Aug. 14.
In a note to the community, Amy and Sarah said they were “incredibly grateful and touched by the overwhelming kindness, generosity and support” they’ve received so far.
“We feel very lucky to be part of an amazing community who supports each other, and we can’t thank everyone enough because we understand how difficult the last year has been for so many people due to the pandemic,” the sisters said. “Your love has continued to motivate us through this challenge and has lifted all our spirits during a very challenging time.”
All funds raised from their fundraising challenge will support Sunshine Coast Hospice Society, ALS Society of BC, and Dying With Dignity Canada. If you would like to contribute to their 30-day challenge, go to www.coasthospice.com/hike.
Katie Clogg is the philanthropy and communications manager, Sunshine Coast Hospice Society.
