Sisters raise record funds for Aube-Lumière through community-driven creative event
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Sisters Carie and Vicki Nixon have once again rallied the local community to support La Maison Aube-Lumière, raising a record-breaking $25,272 through their fourth annual “Create for Comfort” fundraiser held on April 26.
The initiative, which includes a silent auction and a creative arts day, has grown steadily since its inception in 2021, shortly after their mother was diagnosed with cancer and received end-of-life care at Aube-Lumière. “The first day here, we knew what an incredible place it was,” said one of the sisters during an interview at the hospice. “The care to the patient, but also the care that families receive… the sense of peace, the tranquility, and the food—everything.”
Moved by the compassion and personalized support their family received during their mother’s four-month stay, the sisters decided to dedicate their fundraising efforts to Aube-Lumière after previously supporting the Canadian Cancer Society for 14 years. “It wasn’t just losing our mom,” one said. “I felt like we’d lost our family. So, then I knew day one that I was coming to volunteer here.”
This year’s silent auction featured 300 donated items and brought in over $15,500. “There are some big-ticket items, but it’s the baked goods that are a highlight—loaves of bread for $70, cinnamon rolls for $100, cookies for $125,” they explained. “It’s families bidding against families, all for a great cause.”
All auction items were donated by friends, family, local businesses, and members of the wider English-speaking community. One participant even contributed a weekend at her chalet. The enthusiasm was such that many supporters, including the sisters’ own children and extended family, took part in gathering items and volunteering. “Our mom’s grandkids, and even her great-grandson, help out. One of my daughters works at a cheese place and tried to get donations from there,” one sister shared, describing how giving is a family value passed down through generations.
