Heartwarming Video: Lower Mainland Charity Supports Brave 3-Year-Old Cancer Fighter

An informal charity in Langley is making a big impact by helping families facing the heavy costs of cancer treatment. Their latest donation went to a family from the Yukon, whose three-year-old daughter, Star, has been receiving care at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver for the past six months.

Tony, Star’s father, received $5,000 from Ashley Samborski, who runs the charity in memory of his mother, Adeline, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2013. Tony, who works as an engineer in the oil and gas sector, had to leave his job to care for Star. The family has accumulated close to $200,000 in debt during this challenging time. “We’ve really been struggling,” he shared, as he described the emotional toll it takes when Star asks him if he is okay.

Star was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of cancer affecting the nervous system. After undergoing surgery and multiple rounds of chemotherapy, her journey isn’t over yet; she will need ongoing outpatient care even after leaving the hospital. Throughout this ordeal, Tony has found strength in his daughter’s smiles, expressing, “When she smiles at me, I can’t get depressed.”

The charity, initially called "efcancer," has helped several families since its inception. The name was changed to "The Adeline Samborski 5K giveaway" as they continue to raise funds little by little. Whenever they gather $5,000, they seek out a new family in need. Samborski highlighted how the costs of cancer can be overwhelming, especially when a parent has to leave work.

Recent statistics show that families facing cancer treatment in Canada often experience significant financial strain. According to a 2021 report by the Canadian Cancer Society, nearly 43% of cancer patients reported that they had to cut back on food or other essentials. This highlights the importance of initiatives like Ashley’s, which provide vital support during tough times.

Tony expressed deep gratitude for the help they have received. After the donation was given, Ashley embraced him, wishing nothing but the best for Star. “I’ll be praying for your daughter and for all you guys,” he said, showing the compassion that drives this charitable effort.

As Ashley looks to the future, he hopes to continue helping families despite the possibility of winding down the initiative as his father ages. “Maybe there will be a sixth,” he mused optimistically. The true spirit of community support shines through this little-known effort, showing how love and kindness can help those in need.

To learn more about this charity, visit their Facebook page here.

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