Like most of us, Carpentry instructor Don Hampton and his family have had to access the services of the Cranbrook hospital on numerous occasions over the years. While some of us take for granted the care we receive, Don has always felt the hospital staff has gone above and beyond for him and his family and wanted to find a way to say “thank-you”.
Over the years, Don has handcrafted beautiful cradles for each of his children when they became parents. Using this as inspiration, he set out to craft a cradle to be used as a fundraiser for the East Kootenay Foundation for Health (EKFH).
Each of the cradles he has created, including the one for the EKFH, has been built from standing, dead pieces of wood in the forest. The EKFH cradle was crafted from an old fir that had been hit by lightning, scarred by at least two fires, and had experienced drought. The result is a beautiful piece of art that has unique character and charm that you’d never find in a traditional store.
Don donated the cradle to the EKFH for them to auction off as a fundraiser. To demonstrate their support, College of the Rockies donated the materials required to build an enclosure to protect the cradle while it is on display.
The cradle is currently located at Tamarack Centre. You can make a donation there or there are also envelopes for a sealed bid auction. The winning bid will get to own this beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece of art.
You only have until the mall closes on Saturday, though. If you, your family or friends have ever had to use the services of the East Kootenay Regional Hospital, this is your opportunity to join Don in saying “thank-you”.
We’re proud to have you as part of the College of the Rockies family, Don.
UPDATE: After being on display through the month of November, Don’s beautiful cradle was awarded to the highest bidder and $800 was raised for the East Kootenay Foundation for Health. Way to go, Don.