Variety provides healthcare funding so more kids can access the resources they need
Raya’s life began with a series of serious health challenges. Melody, her mom, was diagnosed with a heart condition during pregnancy, and Raya was tethered to a short umbilical cord, resulting in an emergency C-section. Born with Down syndrome and a global developmental delay, Raya underwent three surgeries before her first birthday. “She’s had quite the journey,” Melody says.
As a single mom and nurse working 12-hour shifts, Melody faced an impossible choice: stay in Edmonton, where Raya had access to more medical resources, or return home to northern BC for the support of family. Ultimately, she chose to move home believing that love and community would have the greatest impact on Raya’s life, even if it meant longer trips for care.
Now three years old, Raya is bright, curious and full of joy. “She just goes,” Melody says with a smile. “She’s very busy — and so resilient. We had to strengthen her tummy to get her walking, but now she’s practically running.”
Still, access to the therapies Raya needs hasn’t been easy. Limited local resources and program restrictions meant vital supports like speech therapy were out of reach. “Language is so important for kids with Down syndrome,” Melody says. “I knew I had to find another way.”
That’s when Melody discovered Variety’s granting program, which includes funding for specialized therapies. Raya now receives weekly, in-person speech therapy, and every new sign language word she learns opens her world just a little bit wider.
For many BC families like Raya’s, the holidays are a season of both hope and hardship. A time when the joy of the season can be overshadowed by long waitlists, financial strain and the challenge of accessing essential therapies, educational support, or medical equipment.
We’re committed to helping children with disabilities and complex health needs move off waiting lists and access much-needed resources as soon as possible. You can help us get there.
“Honestly, it’s a huge blessing,” Melody says. “We’re doing so much more interactive play now. She’s really trying to express herself. I’m so thankful for Variety — it’s one of the kindest things that’s ever happened to us.”
Raya’s story is just one example of how your support can change lives. Across BC, children are still waiting — held back by financial barriers, long waitlists and limited access to critical healthcare and education supports. And as economic uncertainty grows, more families are struggling to give their kids the care they need to thrive.
Your generosity can help ensure that Variety is there to fund resources that give kids the best start in life, expanding their independence and access to opportunities. That support covers physio and occupational therapy, custom wheelchairs, walkers or hearing aids, private autism and psychoeducational assessments, one-on-one tutoring, and so much more.
Together, we can make this season brighter for families like Raya’s. And right now, your gift will be doubled thanks to a generous matching donor! A $50 gift becomes $100 of support; $150 becomes $300. Every child should be allowed to experience the magic and wonder of childhood this holiday season.