FSJ Hospital Foundation receives $25,050 in memory of beloved community member

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Fort St. John Hospital Foundation has received a $25,050 donation made in memory of longtime community member Tammy MacKenzie.

MacKenzie was born in Dawson Creek and was the owner of Farmhouse on Main, a business she built alongside her daughter Shea-Lynne Kirkpatrick.

She passed away peacefully on July 7th this year in Fort St John at 57 years old.

According to the foundation, MacKenzie underwent multiple surgeries and treatments after she was diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer – a gastrointestinal stromal tumour – in 2017, supported by medical teams at the Fort St. John Hospital and elsewhere. 

In a December 22nd news release, the foundation said funds from the donation will go towards the hospital’s Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Fund.

Her family says she faced the challenges of cancer with determination and a focus on moving forward.

Ryan MacKenzie, Tammy’s widower, said her compassion extended well beyond her own circumstances, including while she was receiving treatment outside of Canada.

“While receiving therapy in Mexico, she went out of her way to assist another lady that needed personal help,” he said.

The decision to support the Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Fund was made with Tammy’s values in mind, according to the family.

“If Tammy had been given the choice, she would have used this money to help others,” said Jack Mackenzie, Tammy’s son. “She always made time for someone who needed more than she did.”

The foundation says the donation will help improve access to cancer care in the region, including earlier diagnosis and additional support for patients and families navigating treatment.

Tammy’s sister, Kim Liwiski, expressed gratitude to healthcare workers at the Fort St. John cancer clinic.

“Thank you for the care you give to those fighting cancer, and for helping them continue to live their lives while undergoing treatment,” Liwiski said. 

“Your quiet support, reassuring words, unwavering dedication and the heart behind everything you do never go unnoticed.

“It is deeply appreciated by our family. Words cannot truly express how much your kindness, compassion and care mean to us.”