Constable Bob Lacroix, 38, is scheduled to head to Disneyland with his family after an impressive pulling together of community, not just on the Peninsula, but across the island and even across the country.
Lacroix, his wife Anic, and their four children, Maximilien, 11, Talia, 6, Ariana, 5, and Alivia, 3, are dealing with a difficult diagnosis that spurred the Sidney North Saanich RCMP detachment into action.
“In the last year or so he’s had some medical issues,” said Cpl. Chris Swain. Lacroix was diagnosed with cancer of the liver and spleen, which has spread. “Right now he’s been given eight to 12 weeks (to live),” Swain added.
As he’s a well-known huge Disney fan, Lacroix’s coworkers decided to send the family on a California vacation to see the “happiest place on earth.”
They’re slated to head to Walt Disney’s grand creation on May 15, the day after the Black and White Gala for Cst. Lacroix fundraiser in Sidney.
“Our intent was to try and get his family there … to give his kids a whole lot of positive, happy memories of him,” Swain said. They’re also hoping to put away some funds for the children.
“It’s amazing to see the community support. Not just other police officers but local business and local municipalities,” Swain said.
The gala will be catered by Stonestreet Café with live music by Shaky Ground plus a silent and live auction with local radio host Ed Bain.
Lacroix came to the Sidney North Saanich detachment just over two years ago; it was his first posting as an officer. Originally from Quebec, the RCMP is transferring him back east to be near extended family.
The family will sell their home in Sooke, made easier by the massive support there. Members of the Sooke Lions Club, police officers and businesses in that community came together to finish the basement in order to sell the home. “It’s one less thing to worry about,” Swain said.
In true red serge fashion, the North Cowichan Duncan RCMP have stepped up with fundraising, spreading the message across the Island. And among the 200-plus comments on the Lacroix Family Trust Fund website are messages from emergency personnel across the board and caring people across the country.
The Black and White Gala for Cst. Lacroix is on May 14 in the Bodine Family Hall at the Mary Winspear Centre (tickets $30, are available at Stonestreet Café and the Sidney North Saanich RCMP detachment in Sidney.)
Lacroix and his family will be in Sidney that night and will fly to Disneyland the following day.
A trust fund has been set up and donations to the Lacroix Family Trust Fund can be made at any TD Canada Trust branch to account number 0721-6329842.
Visit www.lacroixfamilytrustfund.com for other fundraiser information.
