When a child is diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, families often find themselves navigating a journey filled with overwhelming medical, emotional and logistical challenges. Families living in rural and remote areas of B.C., such as Jenn and Matt Rempel, often face significant challenges in accessing the specialized care they need.  As the only pediatric palliative care provider in B.C. and the Yukon, Canuck Place Children’s Hospice understands this unique struggle and is committed to ensuring that children and families receive quality care no matter where they live.  

Through community-based care, Canuck Place offers 24/7 clinical consultation from nurses, physicians and counselling services via phone or virtual care, giving families immediate access to medical advice and reassurance during critical moments. Whether it’s managing pain and symptoms, adjusting medication or providing spiritual and emotional support during challenging times, the team at Canuck Place is always available.  

The Rempel family, who reside in Northern B.C., experienced firsthand Canuck Place’s community-based care when their son, Tristan, was diagnosed with ependymoma brain cancer at just 14 months old. His complex medical journey would eventually lead them to Canuck Place. As Jenn recalls, “Tristan was full of life. He loved adventures, playing video games with his siblings, and imitating funny things he saw, like people snoring. He made every moment brighter.” 

As Jenn and Matt sought ways to manage Tristan’s care, Canuck Place nurses, physicians and counsellors became an integral source of support, offering guidance, medical expertise and a range of services including in-person medical respite care at the hospice as well as virtual resources.