REGINA — 10-year-olds Janine and Tessa got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be co-commanding officers of the RCMP Depot Division for a day.
The pair had a chance to take part in several activities, including watching the sergeant major’s parade, inspecting cadets, flying drones, riding on an airplane, and more.
Tessa said her favourite part of the experience was flying the drone, while Janine enjoyed crushing a car with a police cruiser.
Janine’s mom, Laura, called this a whirlwind experience.
“Most people never get to experience this. It's truly fantastic for the girls.”
Janine herself was diagnosed with leukemia in 2021. Laura mentioned her cancer treatment, and COVID-19 caused Janine to become isolated.
“So, having this experience where she got to meet another cancer kid is really special for her,” said Laura. “I think her and Tessa formed a life-long bond.”
This effort is part of the Kids with Cancer Society’s Beaded Journey Gala, where they auction off dream experiences. The Gala itself has been ongoing for around 20 years now.
Madison McElligott, Kids with Cancer Society events manager, said children battling cancer miss many events in their lives, so this is a way of trying to give them a day back.
She called this opportunity with the RCMP “unique.”
“No one can just show up to the RCMP and do a day like they are doing today.”
This is the second year the RCMP has collaborated with the Kids with Cancer Society.
Chief Superintendent Mike Lokken said seeing Tessa’s and Janine’s resilience is a great example for many cadets.
He also mentioned wanting to give back to communities.
Lokken hopes they can continue this event next year.
Both Tessa and Janine will head home to Fort McMurray and Lloydminster, respectively, later today.
