A Ladner company, with the help of generous Delta tradespeople, is constructing a life-changing home addition for a North Delta family.
Alair Homes-Delta is building an elevator for Andrew and Meredith Essex and their daughter Natalie.
Natalie was born with spinal muscular atrophy and her family has been working with medical professionals to find a cure, while also trying to ensure as much independence for their daughter.
“It’s going to be huge for Natalie to have full access to the whole house,” Andrew said of the home they’ve lived in since 2011. “We moved to this house with the eventual plan of putting in an elevator. This way we can go up when we are getting ready to bed rather than us carrying her up and down the stairs and the wheelchair as well. We went with an elevator that has automatic sliding doors so she can use it on her own.”
Andrew worked for Peter Nielsen, regional partner Alair Homes-Delta, for several years in another company. Their friendship continues to this day.
“I have probably known Andrew for more than 10 years. He was working for me when Natalie was born,” said Nielsen. “Six months ago he reached out to me and was looking to put in this elevator. As soon as he reached out, personally, I said no matter what we are doing this project for you.”
Nielsen coordinated with their corporate office on Vancouver Island as he wanted to do the job at cost. From there Alair reached out to many in the Delta trades who stepped up, supplying labour and materials also at cost or for free.
Construction project manager Bill Beukers said it’s amazing to see a team of local tradespeople coming together to help out.
“I arrived in Canada three months ago and started working at Alair Homes-Delta. Never would I have thought I would be undertaking a project like this one,” said Beukers.
“I'm so happy and grateful for the opportunity I have had to lend a hand for this lovely young family. We wish to see little Natalie healthy and doing well in the future, and hope that we've created a happier and more comfortable home life for her and her family.”
The project will take at least six weeks to complete.
“This is above and beyond what any of us could imagine in terms of support from Alair and from all the trades,” added Andrew.
The companies involved in the project include: Adam Perkin Installation, Delta Carpets, City Spark, Greynest Interiors, Galbraith Plumbing, K&S Painting, JB Drywall, Busy Boys Roofing, Kornel Homes, Absolute Insulation and Nationwide Lifts.
