Since the first year of Capes for Kids, Tanya has worked hard to raise awareness for Holland Bloorview by wearing her cape to church, while getting groceries, and even her daughter’s dance recitals.
And when asked for her funniest interaction and the wildest place she’s worn it, she answers with: pumping gas.
“I went early in the morning, to avoid the lines and crowd, and this one lady looks at me and exclaims, ‘I saw that campaign on TV!’” she says.
But this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fundraising for Tanya will look a little more digital.
“This year I am going to attempt to use social media, more. I have still not fully embraced using it and think now is the time to start,” she says. “I know it is going to be more difficult this year if I don’t since just being out and in the community really isn’t possible this year. Wish me luck!”
Although Tanya has worked at Holland Bloorview as a dental hygienist for 11 years, she recognizes how little most people know about the hospital and its dental clinic.
“Wearing a cape is a nice icebreaker because it opens up that conversation to bring visibility,” she says.
While she skips out on DIYing her own cape—one attempt the first year following along to a YouTube clip didn’t end so well, she adds with a laugh—she proudly dons the authentic Holland Bloorview cape.
“This year Capes for Kids is even more important than ever!” she says.
“With the restrictions and lack of access to care, at the start of the pandemic, for those who are at increased risk due to their conditions, there may be repercussions far beyond what we know at this time. In dentistry, for example, clean teeth equals good health. The oral-systemic link is clear in that the inability to have routine maintenance appointments can contribute to issues or worsening of other conditions. We all need to do our part to maintain access to care for those who have limited access to that care.”