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Coming up in Cowichan: Camp, salmon, history and death and dying all part of the upcoming Cowichan conversation

Eggs For Easter Seals Campaign
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Jim Ward will talk pioneer land owners at the Shawnigan Lake Museum on April 18. (submitted)

Eggs For Easter Seals Campaign

Easter Seals BC & Yukon is getting ready to welcome approximately 190 children, youth, and young adults with diverse abilities to Camp Shawnigan Lake this summer and has launched an Eggs For Easter Seals Campaign to raise funds and bring the magic of camp back for another year.

Donations will help offset the $3,600 it costs to support one child at camp each week and all donors to the Eggs for Easter Seals Campaign will be entered for a chance to win eggs for a year from BC Egg.

“A week at camp is life changing. Our program offers a high staff to camper ratio that creates a safe, fun, and rewarding experience. Each week we look at the needs of the campers and develop customized experiences that bring out the best in everyone. From overnight campouts, sports, games, and arts, to onsite medical support and tailored health meal programs, each camper is recognized for their abilities and gain confidence, communications skills, and friendships that last a lifetime,” says Charlene Krepiakevich, president and CEO, Easter Seals BC/Yukon. “Any donation, big or small, helps us raise the much-needed funds to deliver this magical experience at Camp Shawnigan Lake.”

Camp Shawnigan Lake has provided an overnight summer camping experience for thousands of children, teens and young adults with physical and/or intellectual disabilities. Campers are given opportunities to try activities such as the big swing, wheelchair basketball and water polo, which in turn improves their confidence, independence and interaction with their peers.

“Last summer we had the chance to visit and serve breakfast at camp. Watching the kids have so much fun at camp, was truly an amazing experience,” says Amanda Brittain, director, Communications and Marketing, BC Egg. “This is a special place where kids with disabilities can come and participate in all the activities and celebrate their individual abilities. We are so proud to support Easter Seals summer camp where kids can be kids no matter what their ability.”

For more information, to make a virtual egg donation and be entered to win visit eggsforeastersealsbcy.ca

Salmon centre of April 15 talk

The Salish Sea Marine Survival Project and the Pacific Salmon Foundation are hosting a meeting in Duncan to talk salmon.

On Monday, April 15, starting at 6:30 p.m. in the Driftwood/Orca Room at the Ramada Duncan Hotel and Conference Centre (140 Trans Canada Hwy.), Dr. Brian Riddell of the Pacific Salmon Foundation will present “What we’ve learned through ‘The Salish Sea Marine Survival Project: Findings and Next Steps”.

It addresses questions about why salmon are declining in the Strait of Georgia.

This event is free to attend. For more information go to marinesurvivalproject.com or psf.ca

‘Hello’ game talks death and dying

On April 16 you can play a new game called “Hello”, about death and dying.

No, this isn’t the latest inadvisable teenage internet fad, this is an interactive game designed to start conversations and explore questions about the tough topics of death and dying.

You can experience it for yourself at the free session hosted by Cowichan Hospice on April 16 for National Advance Care Planning day.

When it comes to health-care planning, British Columbians are ill-prepared. According to the BC Center for Palliative Care, 79 per cent of British Columbians have thought about who would make decisions for them if they were unable to, but only 27 per cent have actually documented their health-care wishes.

When it comes to health-care, it’s best not to leave anyone guessing.

Conversations about illnesses and death can be difficult. “Hello” is a conversation game that is easy and interactive, and offers a non-threatening way of having conversations with your family and friends about what matters most to you.

To celebrate National Advance Care Planning day, Cowichan Hospice is hosting a free round of the game at Duncan United Church at 246 Ingram St. Bring a friend, or your whole family, they say. Refreshments and light snacks will be provided.

Registration is required. Call 250-701-4242 to register or for more information. For more information visit cowichanhospice.org

Speaker Series: Shawnigan Pioneers

Jim Ward is scheduled to talk about pioneer land owners in the Shawnigan Lake area as part of a speaker series at the Shawnigan Lake Museum on April 18.

Starting at 7 p.m., Ward will talk about his extensive research into early Cowichan Valley families.

“Jim’s presentation is fascinating and he is always willing to look into specific properties,” say organizers.

Space is limited, and the cost for entry is $5 if you reserve a seat in advance by contacting the museum at 250-743-8372. Entry is $7.50 at the door if space is still available.

Light refreshments will follow the talk.