Kyla McGillis, Jasper, AB — The Jasper community and Calgary Rams Rugby Club members are coming together to support Kyla McGillis and her husband, Ryan Howard, after they lost their home in the recent wildfire that devastated Jasper, Alberta. The couple had to evacuate quickly, taking only what they could carry.
Kyla, a dedicated member of the Calgary Rams Rugby Club, contributed significantly both on and off the pitch. She played a vital role in helping the team win the provincial women’s championship and served as the Vice President of Women’s Rugby. Kyla is also an HR professional at Jasper National Park. Her husband, Ryan, an Advanced Care Paramedic, is currently in Jasper aiding EMS crews.
A fundraiser organized by Vince Fowler, a fellow club member, has been set up to help Kyla and Ryan with their immediate needs as they face a slow and challenging recovery process. The GoFundMe campaign, titled "Kyla McGills & Partner lose home in Jasper, AB, wildfire," has raised $3,372 of its $11,000 goal from 25 donations so far. Notable contributors include Mary Schofield with $100 and Vince Fowler with $257.
The rugby community and friends have expressed their condolences and support through heartfelt messages on Facebook. Kathy Thomas commented, "This is just heartbreaking," while Ryan Smith wrote, "Good on you for setting this up Vinny. Jen Coyne and I will be helping out!" Suzy Rounce also thanked Vince for his initiative, saying, "Great idea!!"
Despite the tragic loss, Kyla and Ryan are grateful for the overwhelming support. Kyla shared, “When Jasper was evacuated on Monday night, we could not have imagined the tragedy that has taken place. We left expecting to come back to the town as we had left it. The well-meaning phrases are rolling in, and they’re the same ones we’re telling ourselves: ‘It’s just stuff,’ ‘At least we are safe,’ ‘We have each other,’ etc. These are all true but right now, they don’t comfort the grief of losing a home we loved in a place we were really settling into.”
The funds raised will assist Kyla and Ryan with immediate needs such as housing, essentials, and rebuilding their lives. The rugby club, known for its strong sense of community and support, is rallying to help one of their own through this difficult time.
Short Summary of Kyla McGillis
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Kyla McGillis |
| Event | Lost home in Jasper wildfire |
| Fundraiser Created By | Vince Fowler |
| Goal Amount | $11,000 |
| Amount Raised | $3,372 |
| Location | Jasper, AB |
| Purpose | Immediate needs, housing, essentials, rebuilding |
| Key Supporters | Mary Schofield ($100), Vince Fowler ($257) |
| Community Response | Heartfelt messages and support from Calgary Rams Rugby Club and friends |
The Calgary Rams Rugby Club and the broader community are determined to help Kyla and Ryan navigate this challenging time, demonstrating the strength and solidarity of their bonds.
Note:This post was written and edited by Camila Brown, based on their expertise and research. It is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. We welcome your feedback and questions on this content. Please feel free to contact us.