You've had them, right? Those times we are caught off guard- those unexpected moments that end up being the most #profound?
January 18, 2023 was one of those nights; what started as a fundraiser event became one of the most memorable, touching experiences in my organization's 1.5 year history.
The night was just beginning, as my boyfriend Jake and I sat at our assigned table, sipping on the welcome cocktail, and wondering what the night would bring.
It was the night of the Icons at River's Edge Tap and Table! I was so grateful to be invited as the guest of honour, representing my organization: Help Her Fly (HHF).
John Janisse- the owner of River's Edge, and Michelle Tremblay- owner of Karma Wine and Whiskey bar, so graciously offered to donate the proceeds from the evening to HHF. Talk about thrilled, elated, joyful, disbelief I felt when I received the offer! Holy, really? Me? HHF?! Thankful doesn't begin to describe it.
So, as we're sitting there, John came over- enticing me to get out of my seat, as he had someone he thought I would "be very interested in meeting".
John took me to the back of the room, where a very well dressed man sat on his own, by the name of Owen Crampsie. After John introduced Owen and I - Owen made me cry.
Well, it was John's words, and Owen's actions!
I was used to crying, as just 1 month prior to that evening, one of my best friends- my amazing Dad, passed away. Just when I thought I couldn't shed anymore tears, there they were. These were a different kind of tear though- not from sadness and loss, but from sheer gratitude!
Have you ever felt such a deep sense of #gratitude, your mouth fell open and you wanted to speak the words of your heart, but couldn't find the right words to say? This was one of those moments.
What did John say to me?
John said: "Whatever proceeds we raise tonight, Owen is going to match them!".
In an instant my mouth dropped, hand on my heart, I looked at Owen, and then at Jake and tears immediately sprung from my eyes. I couldn't believe what I had heard!
Only 2 nights before, Jake and I were dreaming big for the coming year for HHF.
The proceeds raised at River's Edge that evening ACHIEVED HHF's entire goal for the year!
Holy crow! We call it #manifestation, some call it coincidence, call it what you want, I don't care, it was PHENOMENAL!
The night went on; delicious food was savoured, phenomenal talent and entertainment was appreciated and new connections were made.
I've been to a LOT of live events and fundraisers and I have never felt the camaraderie, support, warmth and community I felt among all 4 walls of that venue.
Even if zero dollars were raised, I left that night with a full heart and soul.
There is so much good in our community #windsoressexcounty and so many amazing people!
Owen Crampsie and John Janisse are part of #Thegivingeight, making dreams come true and spreading so much goodwill and humanitarianism throughout our community. I couldn't be more thankful.
Let's support our community members and business owners. It's been a long 3 years.
Truly; Thank you for being a part of my journey.
Pictured left to right: John Janisse, Stacey MacKinnon, Owen Crampsie, Basma Preston