East York Mirror

A day of rain did not stop residents of Durant Avenue from successfully raising more than $10,000 for the Sissakis family who recently lost their son Dimitri to cancer.

Neighbours and friends sought donations at a barbecue fundraiser on July 15 for the family who incurred expensive medical bills after seeking treatment for their 25-year-old son south of the border.

Joyce Dimopoulos, a neighbour who was instrumental in organizing the event, said the parents, Helen and Angelo, are very grateful for the community’s support.

“They are just so overwhelmed. They just keep saying thank you. It’s so heartfelt,” said Dimopoulos.

According to Dimopoulos, most of the proceeds came in the form of monetary donations and the community was very generous. The winner of the 50/50 draw, Emma Kovacevic, immediately donated her $300 winnings back to the cause. The event also raised funds through raffles, a silent auction, and food purchases.

While the event was a success, heavy rain stifled sales at the white elephant table and so the Durant Avenue organizing committee has decided to host a yard sale.

The sale will take place on Sunday, July 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Durant Avenue and all proceeds will go to the Sissakis family.

Any donations for the garage sale are welcome and can be dropped off to Dimopoulos at 135 Durant Ave. If items need to be picked up, contact her at 416-422-1614.

In addition, for the next month, monetary donations to the family can be made at any Royal Bank of Canada branch to “Project Dimitri,” account number 05502-003-100-174-2

Over a year ago, Dimitri was diagnosed with cancer in Canada. Treatments proved unsuccessful so the family pursued medical care in the United States. Despite their effort, his cancer continued to spread. Dimitri died on June 30.

The neighbours of Durant Avenue would like to extend a thanks to everyone who has contributed to the cause.