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Schmirler Foundation telethon hits $3 million mark

The foundation made a $35,000 donation to the Penticton Regional Hospital
Black Press Media
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By Matthew Abrey

Special to the Western News

Kerri Einarson, skip of the Wild Card Scotties Tournament of Hearts team based out of Winnipeg, holds the Sandra Schmirler Foundation near and dear to her heart.

As the foundation was raising funds for intensive care life-saving equipment for babies on Sunday at the South Okanagan Events Centre during their 17th annual telethon, Einarson’s eyes began welling up.

Related: Schmirler Foundation gives warmly for newborns at Penticton hospital

Einarson herself had complications with her own pregnancy. She started having contractions at seven months, but doctors were able to stop the labour process allowing the skip to give birth around her scheduled date.

“It’s so huge. Every time the commercial comes on it makes me want to cry. In fact, I’m tearing up now just thinking about it,” said Einarson.

“It’s such a good cause and there are so many young babies and parents out there who really need their help.”

Over 18 years after Olympic gold medallist (1998) Sandra Schmirler passed away from cancer at the age of 36, her friends and family are keeping her legacy alive and well.

Over $315,000 was raised during the Sunday telethon, which ran with support of Curling Canada and TSN. Curlers even take the time to work the phones during the fundraising event.

The group started the day with the goal of surpassing the $3 million mark, that was accomplished around 8:30 p.m. A total of $3,040,410 has been raised over the past 17 years.

The foundation made a $35,000 donation to the Penticton Regional Hospital to purchase an infant warmer.

If you missed the telethon and still want to donate, visit sandraschmirler.org.