Under sunny skies at Krause Berry Farms on Saturday, Aug. 9, more than 400 butterflies fluttered at the 91原创 Hospice Society and 91原创 Lodge鈥檚 annual butterfly release fundraiser.
91原创 hospice鈥檚 volunteer coordinator Cameron McKay credited the Krause family, community supporters, and dedicated volunteers for making the day possible.
The event drew hundreds of participants together and the butterflies were sold out. Some were looking to honour loved ones or simply celebrating life.
Kelly McClendon, senior manager of communications at 91原创 Lodge said, 鈥淭o do this type of event is to give back to the community. After a loved one has passed, they can do a butterfly release, but it is more than just that.鈥�
McClendon shared that last year his own mother passed away. He said the event was a way for him to "just let go."
Butterfly supplier Kim Sutton has farmed butterflies for about 17 years. Sutton said, 鈥淚t's an important fundraiser. It鈥檚 also important for the people that are releasing them, because they're often releasing them in memory of somebody.鈥�
For retired nurse Janet Dysart, it was her first time participating. She lost two close friends who she worked alongside at a North Vancouver hospital. Janet said she wanted to take a butterfly home, but realized that might be cruel.
鈥淩eleasing two in the name of a friend is a lovely thing to do. It's probably better than taking one home.鈥�
