Shoulders to rest on

Community gathers to support Membertou teenager

Taliaq, nitaps and Happy Mi’kmaq History Month. This year, we celebrate the 25th annual Mi’kmaq History Month, which was kicked off with the 32nd annual Treaty Day on Oct. 1.

So you may be thinking, “Ah, an article on Treaty Day and/ or Mi’kmaq History Month.” Close, but not exactly.

For October’s edition of Member News, I’m going to share a story about how our community comes together in support of one another. It’s just something we do as Mi’kmaq people.

Just last weekend, a super special fundraiser concert was held at the Membertou Trade & Convention Centre in support of the Smith-Christmas family. So, naturally I had to get my tickets.

What a better way to support a good cause than enjoying three great bands with all the cool folks from Membertou and all across Cape Breton. The evening’s lineup included The Relatives, Troy Oakley & Tempted and Terry Peterson & The Off the Wall Band. A silent auction was also held, featuring donations from the community and local businesses.

Unfortunately, I missed The Relatives from Eskasoni, having arrived fashionably late. If you’ve heard The Relatives before, then I don’t need to explain just how much they rock. If you haven’t, check them out sometime.

Fortunately, I was able to catch much of the set from Troy Oakley & Tempted. While I’ll be the first to admit that country music is not really my taste, I’ll also state that these guys possess some serious talent and had the crowd dancing and enjoying itself. Troy, you have one amazing voice, sir.

Terry & TOTWB kept the music going and closed out the show with a mix of classic covers and original wonders.

Now, I assume you’re curiously asking, “Darn, I missed a great show — but what was the purpose of the fundraiser.”

Alison Christmas, 15, is the youngest daughter of Ian and Sandra. At a very young age, Alison was diagnosed with lupus. Before the fundraiser, I had heard the term lupus but had no idea what it was.

Like any other esteemed researcher, I resorted to Google for more information. According to The Mayo Clinic:

“Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues and organs. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems — including joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart and lungs. Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its signs and symptoms often mimic those of other ailments.”

It sounds very painful and like something that shouldn’t be wished upon a worst enemy.

I grew up in Membertou as friends of the Smith-Christmas family and wish them all the best.

What made me so proud about this event was how the community came out to support the wonderful cause. It’s what we do as Mi’kmaq, it’s what we do as Membertou residents. Money raised will go towards Alison’s trips to Halifax for treatment.

What resonated with me the most that evening were the warm and honest words of Alison’s mother Sandra Smith, “Thank you for being the shoulders to rest and to cry on.”

If you came out to the show, pat yourself on the back and know you partied hard for a great cause.

Alison, Membertou has your back. This is why I love my little community.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS The Smith-Christmas family gathered at a fundraiser for Alison Christmas, a Membertou teenager who suffers from lupus. From left, sister-in-law Rebecca Johnson, brother Dana Smith, kiju Shirley Christmas, Alison Christmas and mother Sandra Smith.

Terry Peterson and The Off the Wall Band closed out the evening at the fundraiser for Alison Christmas.

The Christmases, Shirley, cousin Edwin and his wife Jenny.

Alison’s mom, Sandra Smith, thanks everyone for “being the shoulders to rest and to cry on.”

Host George Smith, Alison’s grandfather, welcomes everyone to the show.

One of the best voices in country music, Troy Oakley, performed at the fundraiser for Membertou teenager Alison Christmas.