On November 13th, Sandra and Vito Bigioni hosted a reception at Bloorview Kids Rehab. Their daughter, Emily, born with pachygria a congenital brain condition, participates in many of the programs at Bloorview.
When Vito heard that Bloorview’s March Break Respite Camp program was going to be cancelled due to lack of funding, he became a man on a mission! He is fundraising for Bloorview’s respite care programs and his goal is to raise over $1 million, which will ensure the respite programs can be run today and in the future.
“Emily doesn’t talk, but her smile tells it all. When she is at Bloorview, we know she is happy. Emily has attended numerous Bloorview programs over the years and every single one of these programs allows her to grow artistically, socially, physically and mentally. There are no boundaries - the possibilities are endless,” stated Vito Bigioni.
To help reach his goal, the Bigioni Family hosted an event at Bloorview. The elegant reception included a special performance by the legendary singer Gordon Lightfoot.
Vito’s efforts and this event have generated over $750,000 for The Emily Bigioni Respite Endowment Fund. Vito and Bloorview are grateful for the evening guests who donated, especially SmartCentres and Bill Holland who each contributed $100,000.
“Vito’s passion and commitment to ensuring Bloorview has a sustainable respite care program is exceptional. His unyielding dedication to meet his goal has inspired me to contribute to ensure that kids with disabilities and their families can always count on Bloorview,” stated Bill Holland, Chief Executive Officer of CI Financial.
Donor support allows Bloorview to offer respite programs that provide both high quality medical care and recreation activities for children, so that families feel comfortable taking a needed break knowing that their child is receiving excellent care in a safe and stimulating environment. If you would like to learn more about Vito’s fundraising please visit: http://www.bigioni.giftsofpossibility.ca.
