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Compassion House in need of community support

PHOTO. Sorrentino's Compassion House in Edmonton lodges many women from western Canada, including Fort McMurray, while they are in town for their cancer treatment. Supplied by Compassion House Foundation.

Sorrentino’s Compassion House is a familiar name to women and families in Fort McMurray.

Located in Edmonton, the house welcomes guests from across western Canada making the trek to Edmonton for cancer treatment.

Since 2002, 143 guests from Fort McMurray lodged at Compassion House.

Wendy Quinn is one of those guests.

She said the atmosphere at the lodge helped her on her cancer journey.

“It helps that I’m surrounded by other ladies that are so positive.”

Quinn added like other guests of the House, she finds hope and healing in homely and comforting accommodations.

When health officials in Canada and the world declared COVID-19 pandemic, the Compassion House Foundation noted the shift in care and support.

Guests who battle cancer must also account for the health risks of COVID-19.

Compassion House Foundation CEO, Michelle Okere said in a crisis, “cancer forges forward.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of us directly and deeply but for our guests, the impact has been significant. The world has become one big health risk at a time when their health is already threatened.”

The pandemic caused the cancellation or closure of many events, socials, awareness campaigns, fundraisers, and businesses.

Quinn said communities like Sorrentino’s Compassion House must now adjust to self-isolation orders to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

“We all understand that avoiding contact with outsiders and keeping clean is a must.”

The Foundation reached out to the public for help on social media with #HelptheHouse.

Okere said they receive overwhelming support from the community as well as cleaning supplies, paper products, and food for their guests during the interim.

“We’re so grateful for all of the support we’ve received during this difficult time. COVID-19 has jeopardized many traditional forms of fundraising, leaving non-profit organizations like us uniquely vulnerable. We need the community now more than ever.”

Wood Buffalo residents may also join in supporting Sorrentino’s Compassion House and women on their cancer journey.

The Foundation said monetary donations would go towards its greatest area of need as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

“I’m comforted knowing our journey has a common destination.” Said Wendy Quinn.

To donate and for more information, go to the Compassion House website.