Olivia Potorti, a 10-year-old Cranbrook resident has been battling leukemia since her diagnosis several months ago, and the community has stepped up to help.
Soul Food, Brook PR, Wild Honey and Velvet Life teamed up to put together a fundraiser to help support the Potorti family.
Admission to the December 11th event cost $25, which was sold out. Cranbrook Flooring and Sandor Rentals both matched ticket sales up to $1,000 each, and Charbonneau Holdings matched up to $500.
“This event is unbelievable,” Dustin Potorti, Olivia’s father. “I thank Cranbrook in general for everything they’ve done for us has been unexpected and so heartwarming. I can’t speak enough of it.”
Olivia Potorti has since gone into remission, but will still be under intensive care.
“She has a rare form of leukemia. I think only one other child in Canada has it. She’s in full remission now, which for leukemia patients, is a really good thing, however, her treatments don’t change,” said Potorti. “She has eight months of intense treatments to go. She’s doing treatments four days a week in Calgary. The schedule sort of changes depending on her treatments and drugs getting together that month.”
Potorti added that despite her situation, Olivia has maintained a positive attitude.
“She’s doing really well right now with the treatment she’s currently getting, her spirits are up. We’re so happy she’s our daughter again,” said Potorti. “I think as long as her spirits stay up, she’s going to be okay.”
Potorti said he and his family feel grateful for what the community has done for them.
“I want to thank everybody in Cranbrook and tell them how much the Potorti family appreciates all of their help. It has really warmed us,” said Potorti.
The Potorti family has set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for Olivia, it has reached $30,000 of its $40,000 goal.