We are matching all funds raised up to $5,000 to help Matthew Hassen, a much-loved hospitality professional, during his recovery from his upcoming kidney transplant surgery.
The fundraiser will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at the Owl Pub (7603 Spartan Drive, Osoyoos) from 6pm until late. Tickets, available at the Owl Pub, are $20 per person and include entry, a burger and a beer, along with the opportunity to participate in and win various prize draws. 100% of proceeds will support Matthew during his 12-month recovery.
Can’t attend the fundraiser? Click HERE to support Matthew’s GoFundMe page.
Matthew’s Story:
Matthew, 37, has been working in a variety of positions in the BC hospitality industry for 17 years, most recently as a bartender in Osoyoos.
Matthew, a Type 1 diabetic, was diagnosed with kidney failure earlier this year, and his kidneys are working at less than 10% capacity. He is currently working as much as he can to save money, but he returns from work completely exhausted.
After searching for a donor, and as a testament to his strength of character, Matthew was surprised and humbled when one of his former co-workers, Josh Hackett, volunteered to donate his kidney. After numerous tests, Josh was found to be a match and surgery is now scheduled for later this year.
Matt will face up to 12 months of recovery, a process slowed down due to his struggle with diabetes.
The team at the Owl Pub, Matthew’s former employer, has offered to hold a fundraiser at the pub, which provided the perfect opportunity for a matched fundraising event. Our board of directors have agreed to match all funds raised at the event up to $5,000, which can effectively turn $5,000 into $10,000.
When asked why he was eager to support, Owl Pub GM Tyler Fecyk explained, “It’s easy. Matthew is family and family stick together. He has demonstrated his passion for the industry over the past two years with us and our customers appreciate his attitude behind the bar. His co-workers love working with him and he has made his mark in Osoyoos with his cocktails. Our town is all about community, and when one of our own needs help, everyone is there to make sure they have the love and support they need.”
For more info and to donate, visit: