Poignant and profound, the red poppy and its significance have reappeared across Canada to honour those who have served.

“We do this for veterans and families,” says Carol O’Dell, Chairperson, Richmond Poppy Fund, whose campaign is under way. “It’s about respect.”

The poppy is an emblem throughout the Commonwealth that commemorates Remembrance Day and honours members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty. Each year, the Richmond Poppy Fund fundraising drive takes place with major assistance from the Army, Navy and Air Force Cadets between the latter part of October and November 11, Remembrance Day.

In Richmond, the Army, Navy and Air Force unit 284 (Steveston) and royal Canadian Legion (Bridgeport) Branch 291 jointly operate the Poppy Fund.

Veteran support

Veterans have been strong supporters of local health care. As one of Richmond Hospital Foundation’s longstanding donors, the Richmond Poppy Fund has benefited the many veterans, other patients and their families here over the years by helping to purchase urgently needed medical equipment.

“My father, my grandfather, my great-grandfather and my uncle were all veterans. They all served and they all came home with various ailments,” says Carol.

“If I can help raise money to help the health of someone who had put their life on the line for me, it’s all worth it.”

A lot of pride

Tom Brander, President, Army, Navy and Air Force unit 284 (Steveston) says they are also proud to help improve local health care. “We have quite a few members who need care at Richmond Hospital. If we didn’t have a hospital here, it would be a big burden to have to go elsewhere.” Tom joined the Navy in Nova Scotia in 1969. his own father was in Korea and served for 25 years. he began volunteering for the Army, Navy and Air Force unit 284 (Steveston) in 2008, becoming president this year. In August, Army, Navy and Air Force unit 284 donated to Richmond Hospital Foundation to help fund surgical equipment to perform intricate surgeries of the ear to improve hearing and help fund critical care ventilators in the Intensive Care unit to help Richmond’s sickest patients breathe.

“I’ve personally been in Richmond Hospital a few times and had great care,” says Tom. “We’re proud we’re able to help patients here.” As part of their fundraising, the Army, Navy and Air Force Unit 284 (Steveston) hold a 50/50 raffle and meat draw every Friday and Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Veterans Club at 11900 No 1 Road. Visitors are welcome.

Poppies available

The annual Poppy Fund drive is now underway. Poppies are available for sale at approximately 200 locations across Richmond, including all major malls, bars, restaurants, liquor stores, as well as at the Legion at 11131 Bridgeport Rd, and the Patient Information Desk at Richmond Hospital.