Team Tallula came together to raise more than $2,000 at the 16th annual Toronto Hike for Hospice.
The event, held in early May, raised a total of $60,400 for vital programs and services at Emily’s House/Philip Aziz Centre and Hospice Toronto. Hospice assists about 1,660 individuals in the Greater Toronto Area and offers much-needed caregiver relief and respite. David Smeriglio, a REALTOR® with Sutton West Realty, said he’s grateful for the exceptional staff and volunteers at Emily’s House and the warm welcome his daughter, Tallula, receives when she visits. He rallies Team Tallula in the Hike for Hospice because he said he knows the importance of these services for all patients and their families.
“The hike went very well. Many people donated to Team Tallula including several from my office, which is encouraging and thoughtful. All of the contributions are appreciated,” Smeriglio said.
Soon after the fundraiser, his daughter went into a major, seven-hour surgery because her femur became unhinged from her hip. David said this is common with children who have complex disorders since they involuntarily sweep their legs in one direction. It was successful, and she was able to avoid a Spica (body) cast.
“There is only one paediatric convalescence home in all of the Toronto area. It is Bloorview in northeast Toronto, so we got stuck in hospital at McMaster in Hamilton then home care for the six to eight-week recovery.”
As a father of three and a busy REALTOR®, David works hard to balance his responsibilities. When Tallula visits Emily’s House, he is relieved to know she receives wonderful care. His daughter is blind with acute hearing and she particularly enjoys the music therapy program.
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
