Most people will help when asked to do so, but only a special few will take the initiative and offer help without being asked. Patricia and Ernie Maynell were two of these special people.
The Eldercare Foundation first met the Maynells in December of 1993, when Pat called to ask if the Aberdeen Hospital would be doing a Christmas bake sale and if she might be able to provide “a few goodies” for that sale. A few days later, Pat and Ernie arrived laden with several trays of cakes, pies and cookies.
In their 70’s at the time, Pat and Ernie spoke of how thankful they were for their good health and independence as they watched elderly friends and neighbours struggle with the challenges of aging. They wondered how they would deal with these same challenges as time went on.
The Maynells had heard of the Eldercare Foundation’s mission to enhance the care of the elderly and they wanted to be part of the changes they believed to be crucial. An accomplished baker, Pat continued to contribute countless baked goods for fundraisers at Aberdeen for many years. “You must only use the best ingredients to have the best results”, she advised. Her cakes and pies were exceptional and were always first to be snapped up by the bake sale buyers.
Pat and Ernie’s generosity extended far beyond baking. Indeed, they became staunch supporters of the Foundation, helping us purchase many wheelchairs and specialty items to enhance care and comfort of extended care residents. They applauded our efforts to bring education and awareness of the many resources available to seniors in our community and became wonderful ambassadors for Eldercare. Pat would often call our office to advise that she had been busily ‘bending ears’ to encourage others to support the Foundation and that she intended to keep on doing so!
Ernie passed away in 2009 and Pat in 2011. The Maynells named the Eldercare Foundation as a beneficiary in their Will and we are so grateful to them for their foresight and caring. During their lives and after them, Patricia and Ernie Maynell exemplified the “best ingredients” in our wonderful community. Through their legacy, their gift of care and comfort will live on. We will always cherish our memories of them.
For more information on the Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation, contact us at 250-370-5664 or visit our website at www.gvef.org
