Brampton, Ontario — Living with a chronic illness is an immense personal struggle and family often becomes a key support system for those it affects. That is why it is fitting that Cystic Fibrosis Canada presented its Future Leader award to Olivia Sottile, daughter of CARSTAR Brampton owner Frank Sottile, for her work at the shop’s Quest4CF event.
CARSTAR Brampton’s recent Quest4CF charity event featured a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt that saw participants scouring the nearby area in their vehicles in search of clues to a hidden chest.
Olivia Sottile played her part by keeping participants hydrated at her lemonade stand that she has run at every CARSTAR Brampton community event since 2017, with all of its proceeds going to cystic fibrosis research.
“Because we’re a family-owned business, we have all been involved with supporting our charity of choice, Cystic Fibrosis Canada,” said Frank Sottile, owner of CARSTAR Brampton.
“Olivia created a burgeoning lemonade stand back in 2017, that saw all proceeds going to CF. Whether it was our annual charity car wash, our presence at a local sporting event or this new Quest4CF initiative, Olivia and her lemonade stand were there each year, raising funds for this important cause.”
As well, because the Quest4CF event was socially distanced, a family affected by cystic fibrosis was able to join in on the festivities.
“It was our first Quest4CF event and my boys and I loved it!” said Gillian Maramieri.
“It was a day filled with family fun that started at CARSTAR Brampton, with a BBQ and car show. By solving clues, we made our way to the next car stops, collecting candy and meeting all the volunteers along the way! You could feel the Halloween spirit as most were dressed in costume. Thank you to all the organizers and sponsors for making this event a success! My youngest has cystic fibrosis and it’s events like this that help bring awareness and raise funds for this genetic disease.”
The Future Leader award recognizes a youth, 19 years of age or under, who has displayed leadership and demonstrated an exceptional and sustained commitment to the cystic fibrosis cause through a chapter.
“The event was a blast and the team at Cystic Fibrosis Canada made it extra special for our family by recognizing Olivia’s efforts,” said Sottile.
“We look forward to continuing our support for this cause, until we can change the meaning of CF to cure found.”
Other supporters from the event included Sheridan College (Davis Campus), Green Briar Recreation Centre, Remax, Peel Police Tactical, Swiss Chalet, Cheltenham General Store, Badlands, Davis Farms, Domino’s and Kinsmen Hall in Bolton.