Support Kelly (McBride) and Todd Yuen

Hi, my name is Amber Lake and I have created this space to support my dear friend Kelly McBride Yuen and her young family through her husband, Todd's recent diagnosis with leukemia.

On January 3, 2023- Todd was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. After feeling under the weather with a lingering cough for some time, he decided to get checked out at their local hospital and that was when their family was given the news that no person expects to hear- you have cancer.

With two young children at home, and Kel still on maternity leave with Abby, you can imagine the great burden this has put on their family, both emotionally and financially. It is hard enough waking up and showing up for your children every day during such a life-altering experience, but Todd's treatment plan is also logistically complicated for their family.

Within days of diagnosis, Todd was starting treatment, over an hour away from their hometown. Kelly has been travelling back and forth almost daily to be there supporting her husband, with a 7-month-old baby in tow. Even more heartbreaking, Todd is unable to have his son Kade visit, due to restrictions in the hospital for his age group. Additionally, Todd will be staying in Vancouver for the foreseeable future and may be required to stay close to the hospital for his outpatient care afterwards.

Here's the thing about Kelly- she is an absolutely amazing human being. Kelly and I have been friends for over 15 years, and in that time she has always been such a beacon of light to those around her. She comes from the kindest and most caring family who have always treated me like one of their own. I remember the sheer joy of 2022 as she not only welcomed her first daughter into the world but also got married to her person.

While I haven't met Todd myself, I can truly say that I have heard nothing but the most wonderful things about him. From what I have heard from Kelly over the years, and more recently from his friends and family- Todd is the most generous and supportive person, always the first to lend a hand without expecting anything in return.

In such a time of high emotions and uncertainty, the last thing we want the family to worry about is finances. While navigating new parenthood, which should be overflowing with joy and excitement, these remarkable parents are strongly walking in the shoes none of us hope to ever have to wear. In collaboration with both the McBride and Yuen families, I am asking those who are able to donate, to do so. Any small amount helps. If you are unable to contribute financially, we'd love for you to help spread the word by sharing their story. The larger the reach, the better.

Funds from this initiative will support them with accommodation and gas for travel, as well as monthly expenses and bill payments for the coming months. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your support. It is the power of community that carries us through.