In September, Sam Sivarajan fulfilled a dream of a lifetime, while raising funds for Bloorview. Sam climbed Mount Kilimanjaro. It took him four days to climb to the summit, Gilman’s point, but the breathtaking view at 5,681 meters above sea level was worth every step.
“The trek was thrilling and challenging. Only six out of the 11 climbers made it to the top, but this was a dream come true and it was all for a truly special children’s charity,” stated Sam.
About two years ago, Sam registered his daughter, Priya, for swimming lessons at Bloorview. While taking his daughter to her swim lessons, he noticed the patients at Bloorview and witnessed, first hand, the impact a place like Bloorview has on kids with disabilities.
“As a parent of a healthy 5-year-old, I find tremendous comfort knowing that there is a place like Bloorview for kids with disabilities and their families. Bloorview is a place of hope, encouragement and empowerment for kids with special needs. I wanted to contribute to this unique children’s hospital,” he stated.
Kilimanjaro trek as an opportunity to raise money for a cause that quickly became close to his heart. He contacted Bloorview and set up an online personal fundraising page at www.giftsofpossibility.ca. He sent a few emails to his friends, family and colleagues to let them know what he was doing, took a long flight to Africa and then climbed into thin air.
Sam fulfilled his dream and raised almost $14,000 for Bloorview. Money raised will go towards Bloorview’s highest priority needs like innovative research and technology, life skills programming, medical training, and adapted equipment to enable children with disabilities to achieve their personal best.
“We are grateful to have donors like Sam who turn a personal aspiration into a community philanthropic endeavour. He is a great example of how one person can have an impact on the lives of so many,” stated Valerie McMurtry, President and CEO, Bloorview Kids Foundation.
We would like to extend a sincere thank you to Sam and all of his sponsors. Donor support ensures thousands of children with disabilities realize their potential and become active and independent participants in their community.
If you would like to learn more about Sam’s story, please visit: www.giftsofpossibility.ca. If you would like to discuss an initiative of your own, please contact the Foundation at 416-424-3809.
