Kelsey and I both grew up in Prince Edward County, Ontario. We reconnected after high school—me working construction, her at Tim Hortons—and a snowy first date sparked the beginning of a relationship that has weathered every storm since. When the military accepted my application, we moved to Cold Lake, Alberta, where I now serve as a Corporal and Avionics Systems Technician with 417 Search and Rescue Squadron. Kelsey works locally with the Commissionaires, supporting 4 Wing operations. Throughout my career, I’ve faced ongoing eye and vision issues that required specialist care in Edmonton. Valour Place has been there for us from the start—offering a safe, welcoming place to stay for appointments and surgeries that would otherwise mean costly hotels or long, exhausting drives. But nothing has compared to how much Valour Place has meant to us during this past year. Without a family doctor in Cold Lake, our high-risk pregnancy was transferred to Royal Alexandra Hospital. Our son was born 12 weeks early, requiring intensive NICU care. Valour Place became our home for weeks on end. The staff offered more than just a room—they gave us comfort, flexibility, and support during an incredibly emotional time. Being right down the road from our newborn, surrounded by people who understand, made all the difference. We are lucky to call this place home while we visit our boy in the NICU and watch him grown until we can go home. My favourite memory of Valour Place is forever changing. I love meeting all the different folks from all the surrounding areas and provinces and chatting with them. The feeling of being home with your family at Valour Place is an understatement. The staff make you feel at home, helping with anything you could ask for. Everyone who visits Valour Place is there for their own specific reason, but the common ground of having a safe roof over your head and maybe a common life experience really brings people together – that’s healing – and that’s my favourite. Valour Place has supported our family emotionally, mentally, and financially. We couldn’t have navigated this journey without it. Thank you to the incredible staff and supporters who keep Valour Place running—it has truly been our home away from home. -Dylan

Meet Tony, a brave veteran who’s been with us this year battling cancer and recovering from surgery and infection. Even through his health battles, Tony has been a beacon of positivity in our house. His contagious energy lifts everyone around him, and he’s left a lasting mark on many of our guests. 🏡❤️

Marcia and Brennan kindly sat down with us earlier this month to share their story and the impact Valour Place has on RCMP, military, first responders and their families. Valour Place is more than just a house—it’s a home-away-from-home for those who serve our country and communities during their most challenging times. Marci and Brennan’s story is a powerful reminder of how vital support and compassion are when facing life’s toughest battles.