A Richmond resident is fundraising for BC Children’s Hospital to thank them for helping her through her childhood.
Marika Leigh Lopez, who has grown up battling epilepsy, has raised $200 of her $250 goal and is reaching out to the community to help with the last stretch.
“I’m supposed to be leaving BC Children’s Hospital within the next year and I want to give back to them for taking care of me, giving me a neurologist and helping me throughout all the things I had to go to the hospital for,” said Lopez, adding that they were there during her “toughest time.”
“They have done so much for me in the past 15 years and probably even more for others like me.”
Shortly before Purple Day – an international grassroots event that raises epilepsy awareness around the world – it was announced Lopez would be one of Purple Day’s ambassadors of B.C.
“It was an exciting moment and I never thought I would be given this opportunity,” said Lopez.
She told the Richmond News she wanted to provide support and help to others through Seizure Soldiers the same way her friends and family have supported her.
Lopez launched support groups on both the campaign’s Instagram and Facebook pages to provide a place for people dealing with epilepsy to connect. Her Seizure Soldiers campaign has garnered nearly 700 followers since last summer.
“The group chat is a place for everyone to make sure each person is doing well and if they aren’t, we are here to listen,” said Lopez, adding that she wanted it to be a “safe place” for people to feel comfortable sharing their troubles.
“I’m looking into turning this into an organization in 10 years’ time, but for now I’m reaching out to those who want to connect.”
Donations to Lopez’s fundraiser can be made through the Seizure Soldiers Facebook page.
