Honouring Fred LeBlanc - A loving Father's Last Wishes

My dad, Fred Leblanc, is fighting Pancreatic Cancer, and at some point between now and 2027, we will have to say goodbye.

His whole life, my father has beaten the odds. Born with a genetic condition that gradually took his vision, he knew from a young age that by adulthood, he wouldn’t be able to see the world. But that never stopped him from living a full life.

Growing up, I watched my dad accomplish anything he set his mind to. He showed me the value of perseverance, kindness, and grit. He didn’t dream of wealth or fame—he wanted happiness, a good life, an education, a chance to travel, and, most of all, to take care of his family. And he did.

My dad never needed a big house, fancy things, or a fat wallet. He built a life full of love, care, and ambition, proving that those things alone are enough.

Now, as we approach his final chapter, I want to honor him in the way he deserves. My dad still doesn’t need extravagance, but I would love to give him dignity, respect, and some comforts in his final days. If you can donate or share this GoFundMe, it would mean the world to our family.

For the man who taught me to ask “how?” instead of “why?” when faced with challenges…

For the man who spent hours helping me with my homework, even when I struggled…

For the man who told me that as long as I show up and do my best, I will never be a failure…

For the man who taught me to stand on my own two feet and face the world with courage…

I want to send him off with love, just as he gave us.

Beyond supporting his farewell, any extra funds will go toward helping my younger brother, Jayden, who is 16, attend post-secondary school. My dad raised my siblings and me, Erin, Andrew, and Jayden, and while the rest of us have grown up, Jayden will be facing this loss younger than the rest of us. My dad always wanted to give us the best start in life, and we want to make sure Jayden has the same foundation.

If you can spare or share anything, we would be forever grateful. Even getting the post around would mean a lot to us.

If you want to read a little bit about the impact my dad has made on my life, and see through my eyes why honouring him matters, give it a read here: https://medium.com/@joanne.marie.leblanc/resilience-reading-the-spice-bottles-out-loud-f93db6466366

For the man who is leaving this world having given so much more than he took—let’s send him off right.

With love,

Jo