Creativity for a cause

WHITBY -- Vanessa Hopman was preparing for her wedding three years ago but couldn't find any jewelry to wear for the big day.

So she made her own.

The lack of appropriate jewels inspired Ms. Hopman to start a custom jewelry business called S and V Innovations. The products are made of Swarovski crystals and sterling silver. The made-to-order bauble business is a part-time endeavour.

"I really enjoy making the jewelry," she said. "It relieves stress."

Now not only does the hobby-turned business act as a stress reliever, it has also become Ms. Hopman's way to contribute to the community. Two years ago she started making Swarovski crystal bracelets and selling them to raise money for the R.S. McLaughlin Durham Regional Cancer Centre. In addition, she sells another line of bracelets to benefit a multiple sclerosis charity.

The work is fulfilling because there are so many people that have been touched by the diseases, she said.

Even though the regional cancer centre is fully operational now, donations like Ms. Hopman's are still needed, said Andrea Russell, director of major gifts and capital campaigns, Lakeridge Health.

"A lot of people believe that because the cancer centre is done, they don't need to contribute anymore," Ms. Russell said. "The truth couldn't be more opposite."

For example, each radiation therapy suite at the cancer centre costs about $3.5 million. The centre has four suites up and running right now, with a fifth expected to be operational by the spring. A sixth suite will be added eventually in case one of the other five need to be shut down for repairs. Each suite needs to be replaced every 10 years and with ever-changing technology it's possible the bill per suite could double by then. So every dollar counts, Ms. Russell said.

In all, Ms. Hopman has donated $2,100 to the centre so far. Her initiative is a "wonderful example" of what one person can do to help big projects at the centre, Ms. Russell said.

In addition to her philanthropic efforts Ms. Hopman is still making jewels for brides, as well as rosaries, custom pieces for kids and birth stone jewelry. The average price for custom orders is between $40 to $60 for bracelets and $60 to $120 for necklaces.

For information about the bracelets visit: www.sandvinnovations.com/braceletsforcancer.html.