William Crooks
Christian Gagnon, Carie Nixon, Vicki Nixon, and Vicky Bélanger stand together at La Maison Aube-Lumière with a cheque for $25,272 raised during the fourth annual Create for Comfort fundraiser

Sisters raise record funds for Aube-Lumière through community-driven creative event

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sisters Carie and Vicki Nixon have once again rallied the local community to support La Maison Aube-Lumière, raising a record-breaking $25,272 through their fourth annual “Create for Comfort” fundraiser held on April 26.

The initiative, which includes a silent auction and a creative arts day, has grown steadily since its inception in 2021, shortly after their mother was diagnosed with cancer and received end-of-life care at Aube-Lumière. “The first day here, we knew what an incredible place it was,” said one of the sisters during an interview at the hospice. “The care to the patient, but also the care that families receive… the sense of peace, the tranquility, and the food—everything.”

Moved by the compassion and personalized support their family received during their mother’s four-month stay, the sisters decided to dedicate their fundraising efforts to Aube-Lumière after previously supporting the Canadian Cancer Society for 14 years. “It wasn’t just losing our mom,” one said. “I felt like we’d lost our family. So, then I knew day one that I was coming to volunteer here.”

This year’s silent auction featured 300 donated items and brought in over $15,500. “There are some big-ticket items, but it’s the baked goods that are a highlight—loaves of bread for $70, cinnamon rolls for $100, cookies for $125,” they explained. “It’s families bidding against families, all for a great cause.”

All auction items were donated by friends, family, local businesses, and members of the wider English-speaking community. One participant even contributed a weekend at her chalet. The enthusiasm was such that many supporters, including the sisters’ own children and extended family, took part in gathering items and volunteering. “Our mom’s grandkids, and even her great-grandson, help out. One of my daughters works at a cheese place and tried to get donations from there,” one sister shared, describing how giving is a family value passed down through generations.

In addition to the auction, the in-person “creative day” portion of the fundraiser welcomed 28 participants, who engaged in scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, and painting. Instead of a set entrance fee, attendees were asked to give a minimum $30 donation, though many gave more. Volunteers, including relatives of the Nixons, handled logistics and meals. Domino’s Pizza once again provided food at no cost, which was resold at the event to offset expenses.

The two sisters’ passion and perseverance have helped generate over $80,000 for Aube-Lumière over four years. Their goal for 2026 is already set: $27,000. “Each year, I’ve set a goal, and we’ve hit it. I’m going for $27,000 next,” one sister said confidently. Her sibling responded with a laugh, “She freaks me out a little. I’m a little more cautious.”

Christian Gagnon, directeur général of Aube-Lumière, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the sisters’ contribution. “I remember their mother—she was here every day for four months, always gracious,” he said. “When I see the daughters continuing her legacy, I see the same spirit. Their support is so important to us, and we are deeply grateful. It’s their initiative, their dedication, and their generosity that make all the difference.”

The Create for Comfort event typically begins organizing in December, with donation requests going out in March. The sisters expect to return next spring with even more momentum. “It takes one person to make a difference. I had the idea, but the community is what’s making it happen,” one said. “Giving back to this place is just a small percentage of what we received.”