Paying it forward

0
116

Suzanne and her family were presented a $1,000 cheque from Lions Club President, Lucie St. Jacques.

Louise St.Laurent



Suzanne and her family were presented a $1,000 cheque from Lions Club President, Lucie St. Jacques.

Louise St.Laurent

BRYSON – Over 100 friends and family members gathered at the Bryson Lions Hall, April 11, for a benefit party in honour of Suzanne Romain and her family who lost their home and business in a fire that also destroyed the Historic Bryson Theatre, January 10 this year.
The event was      organized by Romain’s sister, Paula Romain,     her nephew Matthew Lepine and her best   friend Heather Stewart. “Suzanne has always been a giving person with a big heart and has done a lot for the community. She is always the first person to raise money for a cause or to donate to those in need. When you need anything, she is there,” said Paula.
Suzanne had big dreams for the Theatre as well as expanding her restaurant and opening a music hall. Proceeds from the event will help the family with rent and other expenses. “It’s all about giving back to a Bryson girl. Suzanne is always paying it forward, and this is our time to help and give back” said Paula. “Suzanne finds it very hard to receive. She is always giving.”
In addition to the funds raised at the event, there were several donations from residents and local businesses in Bryson, Shawville, Ile-du-Grand-Calumet, Campbell’s Bay, etc. “The donations have been unreal,” said Stewart. The Bryson Lions Club also donated $1,000 to Suzanne and her family.
“It has been very overwhelming to see so     many people here,” said Suzanne, who spoke about the fire and thanked the BGCP and Campbell’s Bay Fire Departments for saving what they could. “They risk their lives to come and saves lives. These men were remarkable and were very caring and supportive,” she     concluded.