A new fund has been established to support cancer patients at the Moncton Hospital in the name of Becca Schofield, a Riverview, N.B., teenager who inspired acts of kindness around the world before her death.
Schofield, who died at 18 in February 2018 after a battle with brain cancer, sparked a challenge on social media using the hashtag #BeccaToldMeTo.
People enthusiastically completed kind acts in her name, and Schofield was honoured with several awards and recognition.
Thursday, Schofield’s parents announced they are starting the Rebecca Schofield Fund in partnership with the Moncton Hospital Foundation.
Donations made to the fund will create a $250,000 endowment, that will help cancer patients with the cost of transportation, appointments, groceries and unexpected bills.
During the announcement, Schofield’s father Darren told the crowd that there were more than 17,000 patient visits last year at the hospital’s oncology department.
“Many of these patients are struggling financially while they’re in treatment. This fund will help some of these patients deal with some of the financial burden and unexpected expenses,” he said.
“Becca would just love that we’re helping people smile in her name.”
He went on to urge people to donate, and was emotional while speaking about his daughter.
“If your life has ever been touched by cancer as a black cloud, I urge you to please support this fund. If someone you know has had their lives changed forever by a cancer diagnosis, I ask that you please donate,” he said.
“And if Becca ever made you smile, with her wit, her grace, her strength or her sass, I respectfully request that you support the Rebecca Schofield Fund.”
WATCH: Becca Schofield of #BeccaToldMeTo movement passes away after battle with cancer
Donors are being asked to post a photo of themselves on social media with the hashtag #SmileinBeccasName.
— With a file from Callum Smith