Bob Sangha and his family were grateful for the care provided to their mother during a stay at Langley Memorial Hospital and made a donation to purchase shower chairs for the Family Practice Teaching Unit.
Then, Sangha had the idea to host a tour of Northern India with a portion of the trip’s fees forming a donation to the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation.
He had been on a similar fundraising tour before and after approaching Bestway Tours & Safaris, began working with the foundation on plans, noted Errin Young of the foundation.
“Bestway has done a tour like this before,” she said. “They build the tour package... then Bob and [his wife] Nimi act as hosts.”
The 16-day tour will be timed to occur during Diwali (the Festival of Lights) in 2016 and includes visits to nine UNESCO world heritage sites with a designated tour guide from Bestway in addition to the Sanghas.
“It would accommodate a wide range of travellers,” Young said of the tour which is expected to include about 20 guests.
An information session for those interested in the trip will be held on Wednesday Nov. 18 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Yorkson Creek Room at the Township of Langley civic building at 20338 65 Ave.
“There will be a representative from Bestway Travel at the session,” noted Young.
The meeting will outline details about the stops and sights on the tour along with what is included. There will be time for specific questions as well.
The Sanghas will be on the tour and will make ideal hosts because they speak the language, understand customs, and know the region.
Proceeds from the trip that are donated to the foundation will go towards equipment identified on the hospital’s list of needs.
“Most recently we have focused primarily on equipment for our surgical suite and the critical care unity,” said Young.
Those planning to attend the Northern India tour information session are asked to RSVP by phone to 604-533-6422 or by email to erin.mcdonald@fraserhealth.ca.