Calving is a preoccupation in Bentley, Alta., in spring, but this year the community is also making time to rally behind young cancer patient Justin Bickford.
A local bank is receiving donations for a trust fund now totalling $18,000, the school sold candles and a hockey team held a 50-50 draw.
“We don’t think there could be a better cause,” said Wes Gyori, general manager of the Bentley Generals, a senior AAA hockey club.
“When you read a story about a young fellow with a tumour, it really tugs at your heart,” he said.
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The hockey club decided it would take advantage of strong attendance at a recent game to help raise more than $500.
Eight-year-old Justin was diagnosed with brain cancer in January and has since undergone several surgeries in Edmonton, including one that revealed a second tumour.
His mother Jan said an eye exam in January showed some irregularities, and within hours he was receiving a CAT scan and seeing a neurosurgeon.
In the weeks ahead, Justin is scheduled for radiation and chemotherapy.
Entering the hospital and its intensive care unit was especially difficult for Jan, whose two-month-old son died there in 2000 after he was born with a defective heart.
Jan drives to the city with Justin while her husband Allen stays behind to tend to three daughters and their 230-head commercial cattle herd.
Jan said Allen is receiving help with calving and farm chores from family and friends, while her parents’s home at Wetaskiwin has become their base for the regular commutes to the city.
She said support for Justin has been incredible.
“It’s just overwhelming and yet not unexpected,” she said, citing the big hearts of her small farming community in central Alberta.
“They stand together and support each other,” Jan said.
