A recent act of kindness is warming hearts across the Kootenays, thanks to one very grateful visitor from the UK and a dedicated team of volunteers at the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital (KBRH) in Trail.
Anita Fricke, secretary of the Trail Hospital Auxiliary, told the Trail Times that a woman visiting family in Castlegar ended up spending much of her vacation at KBRH — definitely not what she had planned.
Despite the circumstances, she was struck by the exceptional care she received from the physicians and staff, as well as the warm hospitality found in the hospital’s Gift Shop.
“She made several visits to the Gift Shop during her recovery and was genuinely impressed by the variety and quality of merchandise,” said Fricke. “She even asked one of our volunteers if the shop would accept hand-knitted items as a thank-you once she returned to the UK.”
True to her word, about a month later, the Gift Shop received a large parcel from overseas.
Inside were lovingly crafted baby sets — small blankets paired with matching toques and booties — along with several colourful afghans.
“The craftsmanship is beautiful,” Fricke shared. “It’s clear these pieces took months of work. It was such a generous and heartfelt gesture.”
This story is a powerful example of kindness coming full circle.
What began as quality medical care and simple human compassion became a cross-continental expression of gratitude — proof that generosity knows no borders.
The Trail Hospital Auxiliary would like to extend a big thank you to this thoughtful donor, Fricke said, and to all the physicians, staff, and volunteers who make KBRH a place of care, comfort, and connection.
For those inspired by this story, Fricke encourages locals to consider volunteering.
“We’re always looking for helping hands,” she said. "Come be part of something meaningful.”
Applications are available at the Gift Shop, and volunteers can assist there or in the Cast Clinic or Colpo Clinic.
National Volunteer Month
April is National Volunteer Month in Canada, a time to recognize and celebrate the millions of people who give their time and energy to help others and strengthen their communities.
While volunteers make an impact all year long, April spotlights their contributions and encourages more people to get involved.
The idea of formally recognizing volunteers took root in Canada in the 1940s during wartime efforts, but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that April became nationally recognized as Volunteer Month. It aligns with similar celebrations in other countries and is supported by organizations like Volunteer Canada.
National Volunteer Week 2025 runs from April 27 to May 3.
The theme for this year is “Every Moment Matters,” highlighting how each act of volunteering, no matter how small, contributes to building stronger, more connected communities.
People can get involved in several ways.
They can sign up to volunteer with a local charity, nonprofit, or community group.
Many communities host events during the week to recognize volunteer contributions, and attending those is another way to show support.
People can also nominate a dedicated volunteer for an award or simply write a thank-you note to someone who gives their time.
Sharing stories and appreciation on social media using the hashtag #NVW2025 helps spread awareness and encourages others to get involved too.
