A South Surrey couple has turned heartbreak into happiness with their annual toy drive.
Parents Ashley Irvine and Sean Rowdon were devastated when they lost their son, Blake, in April of 2020, when he was only eight months old. Born with a congenital heart defect, Blake was to have a three-part surgery, with one successfully completed.
During the second, somewhat routine surgery, he suffered post-operative complications and, sadly, died.
Rather than dwell on their grief, his parents decided to instead, collect toys for other youngsters at BC Children’s Hospital in time for them to enjoy during the holiday season; this year marks the fifth toy drive held in Blake's memory.
After posting in a moms group on social media about donating, to see if anyone was interested, Irvine was overwhelmed with the response — a lot more than the three boxes she and Rowdon had initially thought they might get.
South Surrey business Floor Envy reached out and offered to be a drop-off site, and also uses one of their trucks to deliver the many gifts to BC Children's Hospital
Now, the drive collects several hundreds of toys each year, all of which go directly to children who are currently in the facility.
"We have been so lucky to have returned support from Floor Envy, Drive Basketball, members of South Rock Moms and other community members," Irvine said. "It has been so nice to reconnect with people who have not just supported the toy drive from the beginning, but who have supported Sean and I when Blake passed away."
Many families who are in the hospital are there unexpectedly, taking time off work, often losing income as well as sleep, Irvine noted.
"The care is great, but as the parent in the hospital with your child, you literally can’t think straight... you are at an all-time low. You’re sleep deprived, hungry, scared... the last thing you can think of — and sometimes, afford — is purchasing a toy. So when people donate... (they are) taking the stress off the parents and bringing a smile to the kids' face," said Irvine.
"When your child receives an item, you as the parent knows it was a donation from someone who intended it to go to a child, and you are filled with appreciation."
During one of Blake’s first hospital stays he was given a teddy bear which, to this day, they still have, she added.
"Blake’s brother Lucas is now 2.5 years old, and we took him to the store for him to pick out some toys to give to the kids at the hospital. I think it’s a great learning opportunity as well, so we can introduce him young to giving back, and to what we do for Blake now even though he is not here."
Toys must be new and unwrapped, she continued.
Stuffies, Squishmallows and Lego kits are always popular, as well as gift cards for older kids, colouring, crafts, dolls, puzzles, toy cars and more.
Irvine said they understand that many people are struggling financially, especially at this time of year, and encouraged people to donate only if they’re able.
People can drop off gifts at Floor Envy, 11 - 15531 24 Ave., Surrey from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday until Dec. 7. They can also email Irvine at irvineashleyL@gmail.com to contact Irvine.
“People have always been so generous, and we’re so grateful. It’s a great cause,” she said. “Anything and everything is appreciated. You’re not just donating an item that goes to a child at the hospital, you are also helping a family keep their little boy's memory alive."
