A whalebone sculpture given in memory of loved ones has brought in substantial funds during this festive season. John Neville, a skilled carver and musician from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, crafted the sculpture and generously donated it to the Canadian Cancer Society. The sculpture was auctioned off at the Festival of Trees Gala in St. John’s, fetching $8,100, with the proceeds directed towards supporting Daffodil Place, a facility that provides lodging for individuals and caregivers traveling to the city for cancer-related treatments.
Neville’s personal experiences, having lost loved ones to cancer, greatly influenced his decision to contribute. Recalling the loss of his brother to leukemia more than three decades ago, he vividly remembers the moment he received the devastating news. His brother’s battle with cancer and eventual passing motivated Neville to take action. He shared, “I always said that I was going to do something in remembrance of him. And I’m really proud of myself for what I’ve done, you know.”
Struggling with alcoholism earlier in life, Neville credits his brother for urging him to seek sobriety. After his brother’s demise, carving became Neville’s solace and purpose. He expressed, “The carving is what turned my world around. I got no desire to be around alcohol or have anything to do with that. No more.”
While the highlighted sculpture was made from whalebone, Neville is versatile in his craft, working with various materials like granite and labradorite. This act of generosity is not a one-time occurrence for Neville, as he has previously donated his carvings for charitable causes such as heart disease and cancer.
Neville attributes his altruistic spirit to his mother, who selflessly created boots for those in need without seeking any payment. He fondly recalled her words, “As long as you keep your feet warm, that’ll do my heart good. We were raised up with a wonderful mother. I tell you, she was an angel.”
Looking ahead, Neville aims to continue his tradition of donating carvings to the Canadian Cancer Society. He expressed his commitment, saying, “I got my foot in the door there now, so I’ll be doing it for the rest of it.” Plans are already underway for his next carving project, with Neville extending his blessings to all cancer patients worldwide.
The spirit of giving instilled in Neville by his mother continues to inspire his charitable endeavors, making a positive impact on those in need.