<div>On the evening of Monday, March 2, at approximately 7:15 p.m., a horrific explosion and fire destroyed the home of <strong>
Sylvia Gillis</strong>
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<div>Sylvia is a beloved member of our community who recently reached a major milestone: retiring after 40 dedicated years at London Drugs. 
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<div>After decades of serving others, she was supposed to be enjoying her well-earned retirement. Instead, in a matter of minutes, she lost everything she owned.
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<div>The night was filled with both terror and incredible acts of bravery. We want to extend a special thank you to <strong>Shawna and her husband</strong>, whose quick thinking saved Sylvia’s life. They managed to pull her away from the trailer just moments before it was fully engulfed.
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<div>Sylvia’s loyal dog, Max, also proved to be a hero, staying by her side and trying to protect her from the flames despite suffering burns himself. Tragically, once Sylvia was safely away from the fire, a spooked and disoriented Max ran and was hit by a car.
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<div>While Sylvia was being airlifted to Vancouver General Hospital to treat her severe injuries, Max was rushed to an emergency vet.  He is now recovering under the care of a close family friend, but he has a long journey ahead to heal from both his burns and the impact of the accident.
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<div>At 68, Sylvia is facing the impossible task of starting over from scratch. She has no home to return to and no personal belongings left.

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<div><strong>How You Can Help</strong>:

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<div>We are asking the community to come together for Sylvia and Max. 
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<div><strong>Your donations will go directly toward:</strong>
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<div>•	<strong>Sylvia’s Medical Recovery</strong>: Supporting her care at VGH and the long road of rehabilitation for her burns.

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<div>•	<strong>Max’s Veterinary Bills</strong>: Covering the emergency care for his burns and injuries from being hit by a car.

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<div>•	<strong>Rebuilding a Life</strong>: Replacing 40 years of memories and essentials—clothing, medication, and eventually, a new place to call home.

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<div>Sylvia has spent her life helping our community through her work; now it is our turn to help her. No donation is too small, and every share helps us reach those who know and love her.

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<div>Thank you for your compassion and support for Sylvia and her brave dog, Max.

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Sandra Noble

Gllena Deane

Kerry Quinlan

Anonymous

Cynthia Chan

Dara Mercer

Gabriela Suthoff

Susan Matthews

Pamela Ewing

Francesca Beresford

Joyce Decker

Walsh Christine

Sue Erickson

Padma Prasad

Support Sylvia & Hero Dog Max After Devastating Explosion

Support Sylvia & Hero Dog Max After Devastating Explosion

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