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Wetaskiwin and Stollery: Both Winners

Pipestone Flyer

“I have  forwarded this email to other people hoping it will be of benefit to (increasing) the visualization of the Kids with Cancer Society” were the opening words in an email sent by Judi Reynolds-Olson to announce how she is combining a fundraiser with her Grand Opening, August 29th to September 2nd, 2013. Judi had been planning to donate 50% of all the profits from the sales during her Grand Opening to the Kids with Cancer Society. “The Society will then ensure that the funds are designated to the childhood diseases unit at the Stollery Hospital.”  Judi and her husband have been staunch supporters of the Stollery for many years.

    This initial plan took on a complete new meaning on August 2nd, 2013 when her 3 ½ year old grandson was diagnosed with acute Leukemia and admitted immediately into the Stollery Hospital for treatment.  “For years my husband and I have donated to the Hospital but this is the first time we have actually been in the childhood unit and had to utilize all they have to offer. We are now even more avid admirers.”

    “We were all devastated but with the amazing action and care that the Stollery and their staff gave to our son and daughter-in-law and Porter, we were confident he was in the best hands God could offer on this earth.  We were right, and he has responded to treatment and care so well he was able to continue his treatment with education and weekly chemo/medical treatment as an outpatient and return home within a month. We are all so thankful and beyond words of admiration for the Kids with Cancer Society (and their programs) and the Stollery Hospital.”

    Judi O’s Treasure Trove and Art Gallery is located in her (artist studio) residence at 4317-53a Street, Wetaskiwin. The store is small and personable yet offers a substantial display of antiques, collectibles and new items.  Judi prides herself on having, “unique gifts for everyone including a gallery featuring my work and another (local) artist. I also offer other artistic crafts and creations handmade by myself and other artisans. “The Gallery is open from 12 noon to 6pm, Thursdays thru Saturdays in the months of April, May and Aug, Sep. and Oct. 

Judi shares her personal thoughts

    “In 2012 both my father and mother died leaving me floating in limbo. The interesting info is that my father was Stan Reynolds (the founder of Reynolds-Alberta Museum) and during the majority of my lifetime I was consumed with helping and caring for my Reynolds family, while he was spending the majority of his life devoting it to his "vision".   (When my parents passed away) I gathered my soul and made my own "life" for the first time in 50 years.”

    Wandering through the Gallery, the carefully laid out display depict Judi’s lifetime experiences. “I have opened up this store that displays my creative spirit and portrays my compassionate heart for all ages.  It reveals dreams, hopes, wishes and promises to oneself to share only the best of what we have to offer with others.  In these walls of my ‘haven’, are fun and adventurative portrayals of my lost childhood, painting pieces of my artistic talent, parts of our antique collections, bits of my father's passion for archeology and some of his expert collection, along with many more unique and delightful items.” A visit to the store is an experience that is unique in Wetaskiwin.