WHILE other children were out playing and enjoying the summer sun last year, sisters Maya and Anna Athwal sold blueberries and lemonade to raise funds for ALS BC. They were inspired by their uncle who was living with ALS and decided to support him by fundraising. Through their efforts, Maya and Anna raised $1,710 for ALS BC.

Their father, Dave Athwal, said, “The girls wanted to help their uncle and the first idea for fundraising that came to their minds was to have a lemonade stand – just like in the movies. We then added the idea of selling blueberries as well. Maya and Anna were surprised that they had raised this much money for ALS.”

“The world is in good hands with children like Maya and Anna,” said Wendy Toyer, the Executive Director of the ALS Society of BC. “Their story has warmed my heart.”

The sisters received the Leaders of Tomorrow Award in the 5-13 years old category. The Leaders of Tomorrow Award recognizes youth and young adults under the age of 25 who individually or as part of a group are making a difference in the lives of those living with ALS through their volunteering efforts.

The ALS Society of BC Volunteer Awards Ceremony was held on Tuesday, April 3 at Quilchena Golf and Country Club in Richmond to recognize the involvement of volunteers and contributors for supporting the ALS Society of BC.