Last October at the Symphony of the Kootenays Gala, music lovers were treated to an amazing evening of Beethoven selections by the Symphony accompanied by an incredible piano solo by visiting artist and former Cranbrook resident Sarah Aleem. 

Making the night even more special is what Ms. Aleem did next by donating her performance proceeds of $2,000 to the Cranes of Hope a Legacy of Rod Osiowy project in honour of her former Mount Baker Senior Secondary drama teacher.   

 Sarah's extreme generosity and gift has now moved the Cranes of Hope project to donations totalling $10,662 with 106 cranes symbolically purchased in Rod's honour.

 "The Cranes of Hope is more than just about raising funds for oncology," shares Donna Grainger, Executive Director of East Kootenay Foundation for Health. 

"What I am learning and seeing is the heart of a community touched by one man's gift of making a difference; particularly, with the youth of our City," says Granger

"Individuals such as Sarah Aleem, Kyla Surtees, Candice Fiorentino and others are showing their appreciation by coming forth with amazing gifts that raise the awareness of the Cranes of Hope but more meaningful is by showing all of us that the next generation is ready and more than willing to give back It is truly inspirational and an incredible thing to witness," she says.  

 Sarah Aleem, a grateful student, talented musician, gracious woman and now a philanthropist for health care, Granger says

She adds the East Kootenay Foundation for Health sincerely thanks Sarah for her incredible generosity as well as the Symphony of the Kootenays for allowing the Cranes of Hope to benefit from the evening and the many that came to celebrate the Gala and hear beautiful music. For the Osiowy family, it's a wonderful legacy indeed says Granger.