Ailish with parents Rodney and Cathy Slaney
St. John’s, NL – The Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation congratulates Ailish Slaney, a 14 year old volunteer fundraiser for being honoured with a Spirit of Philanthropy Award for Outstanding Volunteer (Individual) from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter (AFP-NL). A special event was held today at Manuals River Hibernia Interpretation Center to celebrate Ailish and all Spirit of Philanthropy Award recipients.
Ailish is from St. Lawrence and started fundraising for the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre in 2014 when she was 7 years old, the same year she was diagnosed with Medulloblastoma, a highly malignant primary brain tumor. She underwent emergent surgery, and was treated at the Janeway for the next several years, and in 2020 was announced cancer free.
From 2014-2021, Ailish raised more than $73,000 for the Janeway, an incredible feat. Her kind heart is an inspiration to her family, friends and community. That is what a philanthropist and passionate volunteer is all about. And this one is only 14.
“The Janeway Foundation is extremely proud of Ailish for all the work she has done for the Janeway. We are thrilled that AFP-NL recognizes her for this award. She embodies the spirt of philanthropy,” says Phyllis Kinsman with the Janeway Foundation who nominated Ailish for the award.
Ailish’s determination and generous spirit led her to start her fundraising project in order to help kids like her and give back to the staff and hospital who treated her during her illness. In 2015 she started her main fundraising activity, “Ailish’s Annual Pancake Breakfast” where she and her family cook and serve breakfast to family and friends in their home. That year alone she managed to raise $13,500 with proceeds from the breakfast, recycling, tickets, and more activities.
“National Philanthropy Day provides the opportunity for us to celebrate those who give each year, whether it be in volunteer time or charitable donations, and our members who are responsible for generating philanthropic support for their organizations. Philanthropy is a powerful thing. No one is required to give; it is voluntary and those who give do so because they see the need,” states Kelly Reid, President, AFP NL Chapter.
About the Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation The Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation is a registered charitable organization created to raise funds to meet the financial needs of the Janeway Children’s Health and Rehabilitation Centre for capital projects, medical equipment and research and programs directly related to the health and welfare of NL children, while promoting awareness of these needs.
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Media Contact:
Phyllis Kinsman, Manager, Communications and Events
Janeway Children’s Hospital Foundation
phyllis.kinsman@easternhealth.ca
709-777-4264 or 709-770-4912