Eagle Ridge Hospital Foundation's (ERHF) 2023 golf and concert fundraiser was filled with "irony" — both on and off the course.
More than $264,000 was raised for programs, services and medical equipment from the Ryan and Lucas Johansen Charity Golf Classic and "Night in Nashville" country music event on Sunday (July 9) and Wednesday (July 12) respectively.
A Port Moody teen's ironic story of healing was arguably the highlight of the week, as explained in her testimony she presented in front of hundreds of residents and community leaders at Inlet Theatre.
Hartley Renard, 13-year-old daughter of Port Moody police officer Fraser Renard, was the first-ever patient in the trauma ward of ERH's new emergency department after breaking her leg during a practice with her Tri-City Titans softball team.
The incident took place a week after B.C. politicians officially opened the $37.5-million upgraded facility.
Ironically, Renard's injury happened the same day as last year's Charity Golf Classic, and her parents were participating in the tournament at Westwood Plateau Golf and Country Club.
"To add to the irony, while my mom was waiting for the doctor, she received a notification that she had won an item at the ERHF silent action," Renard said.
"There has been ups and downs however, I believe it's made me better in so many different ways. I am thankful for Eagle Ridge Hospital Foundation as it has helped so many people in the Tri-Cities and I hope through sharing my experience you can see first hand how your contributions in events like tonight can truly make a difference for everyone in our community."
She added she's also friends with Ryan, who helped organize the events, bringing Nashville-based country artists Eric Van Houten and Heath Warren.
However, three weeks later, the soon-to-be 31-year-old NHL forward was traded from the Nashville Predators to the Colorado Avalanche.
Amid all that irony, the ERHF believed Renard's story and her bond with Ryan had a lasting impact this year's donors for improved healthcare in the Tri-Cities.
The Johansen brothers agreed.
"We have been incredibly fortunate to have grown up in the Tri-Cities, surrounded by supportive friends, family, and a tight-knit community. Giving back is our way of expressing gratitude and showing our appreciation for all the opportunities and love we have received here," Ryan shared.
"Seeing the positive ripple effect of our charitable endeavours is truly inspiring," added Lucas, a defenceman in the Washington Capitals' system.
"Each act of giving has the power to transform lives, bring hope, and strengthen our community."
A sold-out crowd of 160 golfers teed it up at Westwood Plateau for the annual friendly-competition fundraiser among dozens of volunteers.
The final donation number fell just short of the record-breaking $265,000 collected in 2022.
The Tri-City News was a sponsor of the 2023 Ryan and Lucas Johansen Charity Golf Classic and "Night in Nashville" concert.
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