The Knights of Columbus’ annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner and dance will be dedicated to a wee special someone this year.
St. Pats at St. Pats, an evening full of traditional Irish fare at St. Patrick’s church, will go towards helping the family of baby Anabelle, who was born nearly three months premature.
The annual event features a traditional Irish buffet catered by the Royal Coachman, a performance by the Tara School of Irish Dance, followed by dancing to live music played by Gord Krueger and The Amigos.
Tickets cost $30 each and the proceeds will go towards helping Anabelle’s parents, mom Danielle Girard and dad Yannick Duplain.
After Anabelle was born December 24 at two pounds, seven ounces, the tiny baby had to remain at Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster for more than a month.
With mom keeping a constant vigil by Anabelle’s side and dad Duplain making as many trips over to the Lower Mainland as possible, the family’s income was cut in half.
Both are self-employed and with Girard at the hospital, Duplain was kept busy looking after the couple’s other two children when he wasn’t at Royal Columbian with his wife and new baby.
Anabelle was transferred to Nanaimo Hospital at the end of January but Girard is still unable to work.
It’s possible Anabelle could finally be going home later this month.
In the meantime, the Knights of Columbus have rallied to help the family in its time of need.
The St. Pat’s at St. Pat’s fundraiser is tomorrow, March 15 in the hall at St. Patrick’s Parish (34 S. Alder St.). Doors open at 6 p.m. and dinner is at 6:45 p.m.
Tickets are only available in advance by calling 250-287-3498.