In Focus is our gift to the community. A way for us to help show our recognition for the people, businesses and organizations that help make our city great. The team at KelownaNow.com is passionate about this community and the people that make it amazing. We want to show our friends, neighbours, family and colleagues that we notice them and the fabulous things that they do.
What is your name?
Deina Albrecht.
Where are you from and how long have you lived in Kelowna?
I was born and raised in Germany but moved to Kelowna 5 years ago.
Who is your favourite person to spend time with and why?
There are too many people that I love to just pick one!
If you could go anywhere in the world right at this moment where would you go and why?
Denmark. I would go and visit my friend who just went into hospice and is terminally ill with cancer.
What is your favourite activity?
Practicing yoga.
What is the most inspiring thing that has happened to you?
Meeting breast cancer survivors and hearing their stories inspires me to do what I am doing as Volunteer Run-Director for the CIBC Run for the Cure in Kelowna.
Where do you volunteer or give back to in the community?
I am a Volunteer Run-Director for the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure. I am leading a team of dedicated women and we are organizing the CIBC Run for the Cure in Kelowna. I have been doing this to honour my friend who passed away from cancer when she was just 28 years old. By volunteering my time to this cause I keep my promise to her to fight against this horrible disease and that one day we will find a cure.
If you could change one thing in the world what would it be?
I believe in a future without cancer and by raising money for the Canadian Cancer Society we fund research programs and doctors that dedicate their time to do just this.
What do you think makes Kelowna great?
The local community is fantastic! Leading up to the CIBC Run for the Cure we approach a lot of local businesses and ask for donations for our breast cancer survivors. We are getting an overwhelming response and a lot of gifts each year!
How do people connect with you, personally, through social media? (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest)
Facebook
What is the name of your business/organization?
Canadian Cancer Society.
Why did you get into/start this business?
My friend Carolin passed away from cancer when she was just 28 years old. I promised her that I will do everything I can to find a cure. As I am not in the medical field I can't do the research myself but I can support the people that do!
What is the goal of your business?
Raising funds for innovative research projects that might lead to progress in breast cancer prevention, earlier detection, diagnosis, treatment and care.
What do you always find yourself saying?
'Do what makes you happy! Don't wait for tomorrow as tomorrow might never come!'
If you could spend one whole day with anyone in the world who is currently alive, who would you select?
The Dalai Lama. He has so many teachings about love and compassion that I would love to hear.
What has been your proudest accomplishment?
This year I became a Canadian Citizen. I can say I was born in a different country, but I chose Canada to be my home. I am proud to be Canadian!
Some general comments I would like to share are:
I would love to see my story shared with the focus on our event coming up! The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure will happen on October 1st this year. Thank you for your consideration!
We encourage you to leave your comments and words of support below and submit your own nomination by clicking HERE. You are also welcome to submit a form of your own by clicking HERE. Thank you, Kelowna.
