A Ladner family's walkathon raised over $40,000 for the Royal Columbian Hospital's neonatal intensive care unit last month.
"All the community involvement was just absolutely incredible," said Ron Van Marrewyk.
He and his wife Stephanie's two-and-a-half-year-old triplet daughters, Shauna, Paige and Andy, were born about 11 weeks early and received care at Royal Columbian's neonatal intensive care unit.
Despite rainy weather over 120 people attended the event at Neilson Grove Elementary, which included a five-kilometre walk, face painting, crafts and refreshments.
Van Marrewyk said the many volunteers helped make the event run smoothly.
"I think with all that we've learned this year, I think we'll be able to make next year even more successful."
The Van Marrewyks are planning their next Christmas 5km Walkathon for Nov. 16, 2013 at the same location.
The family, which also has an older daughter, is thankful to everyone that participated, volunteered, sponsored and pledged money at the first annual event.
