Erin Wallis, well known local photographer and Shannon Andrews. teacher and graphic design artist combined their expertise to create beautiful west coast-themed holiday cards with all proceeds going to Cystic Fibrosis Canada.
Wallis is a close friend of Kim Wood (Black) who has cystic fibrosis.
“I have watched Kim struggle with this devastating disease her entire life – we grew up together as friends and neighbours,” said Wallis. “I would hold her hand and read to her when she was little as her Mom pounded on her chest to help loosen lung secretions – now it breaks my heart to see her health decline.”
Wallis’s awareness of cystic fibrosis and it’s implications were heightened by having an uncle who had passed away from it at the age of 24.
In 2009 Andrews and Wallis decided to create a line of holiday greeting cards with proceeds going to the Ann Elmore Transition House in Campbell River. Since then their cards have benefitted the Food Bank, SPCA, Cystic Fibrosis Canada as well as the Hospital Foundation. Wallis has been involved with Cystic Fibrosis Canada Campbell River Chapter since she was a child. In recent years she became increasingly involved using her photographic skills to find ways to raise awareness and funds for the CF cause.
“Shannon and I have a strong, passionate desire to create. Always. Our motto is ‘Anything is Possible.’ With our card company Runaway Soul we just believe in sharing our wild visions to create a positive expression of what we love, and what is possible. In the past, we try and spread the love around with donations benefiting other incredibly worthy causes, however... this year hasn’t been an easy one for Kim and her struggle and determination to stay positive and keep fighting had us wanting to do something more for Cystic Fibrosis,” said Wallis.
The women create West Coast-themed cards, utilizing found ‘treasures’ as they call them. The women draw inspiration from the beautiful place they call home, with inspiration from local culture, the sea, the beach, the natural elements as well as a rich fishing culture including fishing plugs, old fishing gear and all things that makes us West Coasters truly unique.
Wallis said “creating art is a beautiful, painful and wild process for Shannon and I.
“Doing all of this for Cystic Fibrosis, for Kim and all of the other amazing kids and adults out there fighting for each breath... well, we couldn’t be more proud to be a part of it. We are confident that this year is going to be a huge success. We have an incredible team on board. Ayaz Amlani from Sure Copy in Campbell River is such a selfless, inspiring man. He is putting in rush orders, donating beyond our wildest imagination and is making this truly remarkable.
“Also Monk’s Office Supplies has generously donated all of the envelopes for the cards, so when you buy these quirky Christmas cards you can feel really good that you are donating your money to Cystic Fibrosis and getting awesome cards in return. Bulk orders are possible and a few local businesses have already placed big orders. There is no reason not to buy them.”
The holiday cards are available at Stonehouse Teas, Gourmet Essentials, River Sportsman, Appleseed Cottage and Balloons ‘n More Party Shop or visit website www.crcf.ca.
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is the most common fatal genetic disease affecting Canadian children and young adults. It is a multi-system disease that mainly affects the lungs and the digestive system. Most deaths related to cystic fibrosis are due to lung disease. Severe respiratory problems result from a build-up of thick mucus in the lungs of CF patients, where the effects are most devastating.