Jump for SickKids

Last summer I was walking my dog in Yorkville, Toronto, and saw an artist selling his paintings on the sidewalk. I was instantly drawn to his pieces - one was a colourful and shiny representation of Toronto with inspirational messages nestled all in it. The other, was a painting of a unique rendition of Prince, which also happened to be the best concert I have ever been to (and I don't even listen to Prince).

I asked the artist questions about his work and he introduced himself as Daniel AKA STEEP Daniels. He said he was doing this to inspire children and to give back to SickKids, the hospital that saved his life when he was a kid. I was drawn to his electricity along with his passion and love he had for the entire project. I told him a little bit about my life the past few years, that I wanted to do more meaningful work like he was doing, and that I was moving to Vancouver to start fresh. I told him to call me if he ever needed PR. The day before I left for Vancouver I bought my first piece of artwork- his Toronto painting. He wrote a personal message to me on the back and I hung it up as soon as I got to Vancouver.

Late last year, Daniel called me up and asked if I would join the Jump for SickKids team as the Public Relations Manager. I instantly hopped on board and have been joining their weekly meetings since.  This August, I've committed to fundraising $1,777 for the Creative Arts Therapy Program at SickKids through the Jump for SickKids event.

I have not decided if I will be skydiving, but either way, please consider donating any amount to my page, which will go directly to the SickKids art therapy program.

Please let me know if you know anyone who might be interested in signing up for the skydive (which is $350 to participate) and become a superhero, like the kids who are fighting for their lives every day at SickKids.

More than 14,000 patients are admitted to SickKids each year, and the hospital performs the most paediatric surgeries in Canada. Over the past 10 years, Sick Kids' Creative Arts Therapy programs have eased the toll of illness and recovery by mindfully nurturing a safe environment for emotional expression, empowerment, and social interaction. SickKids provides patients and families comfort when they need it most. 

Help me unleash the full potential of SickKids by donating online – it’s safe, secure and easy. Any amount you give today will help me reach my fundraising goal.

 When we unite in the fight against limits at SickKids, we’re unstoppable.

Thanks for your time,

Leslie