When Teulon-born Danny Waluk and his partner Lorinda received the life-changing news of her ovarian cancer diagnosis earlier this year, they found strength not only in each other but also in the generosity of their Alberta community.
Lorinda Wold, who lives with Danny on their farm near Grande Prairie, was diagnosed with stage 2 ovarian cancer in February — the same month a heifer with a heart-shaped patch was born on their farm. They named her Valentine.
During Lorinda’s trips to Edmonton for surgery and chemotherapy, the couple stayed at Sorrentino’s Compassion House, which provides a supportive, home-like environment for women battling cancer.
“The first time we stayed, Danny and I instantly felt at home,” Lorinda recalled.
After that visit, Danny — a lifelong cattle farmer — had the idea to introduce Valentine at a bull auction and raise funds for the Compassion House Foundation. At the annual Rio Grande bull sale, the community rallied behind them in an emotional show of support.
“People from all over the Peace Country come to bid on the bulls,” Lorinda explained. “The bidding just kept going and going. We thought we’d raise a couple thousand dollars, but it snowballed. I cried because I just couldn’t believe it.”
By the end of the sale, Valentine had helped raise $27,000 for Compassion House Foundation, which supports women facing cancer and their families. A Dutch auction format allowed many donors to contribute, with raffle tickets selling in advance and during the event.
“It was neat to see the generosity of everyone,” Lorinda said. “Not just people at the auction — friends and neighbours called in and bought tickets too.”
The winning ticket was drawn by Bear Creek Animal Clinic, which then donated Valentine back to Lorinda and Danny. The couple continues to raise her on their farm and plans to feature her again at next year’s auction.
Lorinda, who has worked in retail management for more than two decades, is currently on medical leave while she finishes chemotherapy. She keeps busy with hobbies such as crocheting, journaling, gardening and painting, while she and Danny also find time to fish at their lake lot at Slave Lake.
For Danny’s sister, Terri Robert of Teulon, sharing Lorinda’s story on social media has been an important way to keep family and friends back home connected and inspired.
Lorinda says she is grateful for the outpouring of kindness and hopes their annual fundraiser will continue to grow.
“Valentine is still with us,” she said. “She’s a daily reminder of how community can come together in the most beautiful way.”
If you would like to donate to the Compassion House Foundation supporting women across North and Central Alberta who must leave their homes for cancer care. Visit Sorrentino’s Compassion House.: compassionhouse.org/support/
