Concert, golf fundraiser will help Penticton family
A Penticton family will be on the minds of people taking in a special golf tournament and concert headlined by Honeymoon Suite next week in Kelowna.
Brad Krauza, chief executive officer and marketing manager of GonzoOkanagan.com, is hosting the unique fundraiser June 15 at Kelowna’s Sunset Ranch Golf Course.
Krauza learned of the plight of Cindy Rabl, a single mother of three kids, through Canuck Place and was moved to action.
Rabl’s 10-month-old son, Mercury, has been diagnosed with Alexander’s Disease, a rare neurological disease. The lifespan of a child with the disease is seven to nine years. Mercury has less time because his is a more aggressive form.
In addition to Mercury being sick, Cindy makes trips to Vancouver to go to Canuck Place and now her vehicle is broken down. Krauza is working to find Cindy new transportation.
The family also needs food, as Rabl is a celiac and social assistance barely covers their rent, never mind a special diet.
“She’s in a really, really tough situation,” says Rabl. “She doesn’t have a big support system.” Registration for the golf tournament has been sold out for six weeks, but a waitlist has been created to try and accommodate more golfers.
They also have tickets available for the concert, which features Appaloosa from 6 to 6:45 p.m., the Young’Uns from 7 to 8 p.m. and Honeymoon Suite from 8:30 to 10 p.m. Another artist is to be announced for 5:30 to 5:45 p.m.
“This is a fantastic first-year event and turnout,” says Krauza.
Working in partnership with Canuck Place, his company seeks to help out single parents whose children have been using the Vancouver facility.
Rabl was stunned to learn of the help she’ll be getting. It’s unexpected, for sure,” she said. “Definitely a weight is lifted off my shoulders.”
Krauza’s event recently received approval for 700 more concert tickets, which he hopes to sell as that will make a big difference in what they can raise. There will also be live and silent auctions. For more information on the event, visit . A GoFundMe campaign is also available for those who want to help Rabl but can’t attend the event.