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Community continues to rally behind West Kelowna girl with cerebral palsy

Mia Kuypers family has held events to raise the $108,000 needed to purchase and convert a van
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Eight-year-old Mia Kuypers of West Kelowna has severe cerebral palsy. (Contributed photo)

Mia KuypersÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™ journey began in the fragility of a neonatal intensive care unit, born at only 24 weeks old.

Battling odds from the start, the now eight-year-old faces the daily challenges of cerebral palsy, a condition impacting her hearing, speech, and mobility, confining her to a wheelchair.

One crucial need for the family is a specialized all-wheel-drive vehicle for MiaÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s unique requirements. It is a lifeline, facilitating frequent trips to BC ChildrenÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s Hospital, essential for MiaÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s ongoing care.

The Kuypers family has held several events to raise the $108,000 needed to purchase and convert a Toyota Sienna van. Just over $36,000 has been contributed by generous donors so far.

On May 11, from 12 to 7 p.m., PaynterÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s Market in West Kelowna (3687 Paynter Rd) will host a fundraiser for MiaÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s Ride.

Her sister will sell candy to support her sisterÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s cause, while PaynterÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s will donate $1 from every ice cream sale throughout the day.

To learn more about MiaÏ㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥™s journey and learn how you can help, visit the .

READ MORE: Kelowna family invests in Recreation and Wellness Centre at Okanagan College

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About the Author: Gary Barnes

Journalist and broadcaster for three decades.
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