Ken’s Wish: A Living Celebration of Life
- Mar 31, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 30
Sometimes, a final wish isn't about travelling somewhere new. Sometimes, it's about revisiting a place filled with cherished memories—and sharing those memories one last time with the people you love.
When we first heard from Marty, a close friend of Ken's, we knew time was precious. Ken was living with a terminal illness, and his greatest wish was to return to Jamaica, where he had experienced one of his favourite family vacations. Sadly, his health had declined to the point where travel was no longer possible.
So, if Ken couldn't go to Jamaica, we decided to bring Jamaica to him.
With just five days to make it happen, our volunteers, supporters, and the Edmonton Jamaican community came together in an incredible display of generosity and compassion.
The auditorium at the General Hospital, where Ken was receiving palliative care, was transformed into a joyful celebration of Jamaican culture. Friends and family gathered to laugh, dance, share a meal, and create memories that would last far beyond the day itself.
The celebration was made possible by so many incredible people.
Cherelle helped coordinate the entertainment and, alongside Sherol, delighted everyone with vibrant CariWest dance performances. They even dressed Ken in colourful feathers and taught him a few dance moves, filling the room with laughter.
Dorant generously gave up his evening to perform beautiful Jamaican music. Before the celebration ended, he presented Ken with a special gift—a hat from his own trip to Jamaica, signed by everyone who attended, creating a keepsake filled with love and well wishes.
Danielle captivated everyone with the joyful sounds of the steelpan and even gave Ken a lesson, allowing him to experience the music firsthand.
No Jamaican celebration would be complete without incredible food. Thanks to Val, owner and chef of Gen-X Caribbean Patties and Catering, guests enjoyed an authentic Caribbean meal that brought people together around the table, many experiencing the cuisine for the very first time.
Every performance, every smile, every shared meal, and every act of kindness helped create an unforgettable afternoon for Ken and those who loved him.
Looking back, we're especially grateful we acted so quickly.
Less than two weeks after his wish was granted, Ken peacefully passed away.
While his time was short, his family and friends were given something they will carry with them forever: one final celebration filled with music, laughter, love, and connection.
Ken's story is a beautiful reminder that a wish is never just about the destination. It's about creating moments that become treasured memories for the people left behind.
We invite you to watch Ken's story below, shared by his wife, Nicole, along with our Wish Facilitator, Brenda. Their reflections capture the true impact of a final wish far better than words alone ever could.
Ken's wish is a testament to what can happen when an entire community comes together with compassion and generosity. From volunteers and performers to local businesses, hospital staff, donors, and supporters, every person played a part in making this wish possible.
To everyone who helped bring Jamaica to Ken—thank you. You reminded us that it truly takes a community of angels to make wishes come true.
Wish Supporters: The Edmonton Jamaican community
Cherelle George @socafit
Sherol Leslie @rolliesresports
Dorant Ricketts @saintandthefull100
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