County girl’s dying wish was to bring comfort to patients in hospital

Katie Shannon in a performance at Prince Edward Collegiate. – Sue Capon photo

Patients facing uncomfortable stays in hospital will soon be offered some comfort, thanks to a young Prince Edward County woman.

In the spring of 2018, Kait Shannon, 23, lost her battle with cancer but during her stay in the oncology ward at Ottawa General, she and her mom, musician Jeanette Arsenault, spent time dreaming up ways to help others to face the worst days of their lives.

Shortly after Kait’s funeral, a benefit concert featuring many of the County’s musicians was held at Picton United Church, raising $17,000 dollars for ‘Kait’s Kits’ and over the next year, individuals and companies donated or deeply discounted the supplies for the kits.

The kits contain small luxuries like soft face cloths and hand towels, lip balm, perfume-free lotion and soaps, crossword puzzles, and pens.

Kait Shannon – Photo contributed

The first set of Kait’s Kits will be donated to the Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital, PEC Hospice and the Oncology Unit at Ottawa General where Kait spent her last days. The long-term dream is to also supply kits to Belleville General, Kingston General Hospital, and Princess Margret.

Well-known musician and story-teller Suzanne Pasternak, who also has plenty of experience with long hospital stays, was among organizers of the benefit concert, and the public launch party of the comfort-filled ‘Kait’s Kits’ Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7p.m. at the Waring Hall in Picton. Everybody is welcome.

“An added surprise to the event is the posthumous release of Kait’s debut album of original music she wrote, co-wrote and recorded in the studio in Ottawa,” said Pasternak.

“Many knew Kait as a wonderful singer, but few were aware of her gift as a talented composer and song writer as well. Kait was an extraordinarily talented composer and musician. This is a beautiful album was curated by her mom Jeanette and some of the pieces are absolutely stunning.”

The money raised from CD sales will go toward further Kait’s Kits.