Annual Robbie Thompson Slo-Pitch Tournament supports Cancer Care at the Comox Valley Hospital
Throughout the September 12-14 weekend, twenty-two slo-pitch teams will be hitting the ball diamonds at Lewis Park with two very special people on their minds: Jim Lalic and Robbie Thompson.
Twenty-seven years ago, Lalic had a vision to raise funds for a family in need through a slo-pitch tournament. At the time (1999), a baby boy was critically ill awaiting a heart transplant in Toronto with his family. Uprooted from the Comox Valley, the family had no work and very limited funds to sustain their livelihood. Thanks to Jim’s fundraising, Robbie and his family were supported and could return to their hometown and restart their life after this health crisis.
Thompson's health journey is complex, with incredible courage and determination to live life to the fullest at the core of this individual. He received three heart transplants before the age of six. He competed in The Canadian and World Transplant Games. He faced a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy and alopecia with bravery and humor, all while pursuing post-secondary education at Vancouver Island University. Most recently, in 2024, Thompson was diagnosed with a unique type of lymphoma and received treatment through the Cancer Care Unit at the Comox Valley Hospital. With chemotherapy and aftercare behind him, he is now back to his regular life in Nanaimo.
Unbelievable generosity and fierce determination are how the Thompson family describe Lalic and all those who continue his legacy of care and compassion. Sadly, Lalic passed away in 2022, however his boisterous spirit shines each year through his beloved slo-pitch tournament which has raised tens of thousands of dollars to help a variety of endeavours including wheelchair ramps, bursaries, charity donations, and supporting other community members who have faced significant illness.
The Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation is honoured that Thompson chose this year’s event proceeds to benefit the Cancer Care Unit at the Comox Valley Hospital and sincerely grateful for Lalic’s vision and community spirit which they see brilliantly carried forward by the planning committee.
“Tournament coordinators, Joleen LeChasseur and Linda Walton, continue to impress us with their organization and consistent focus on the heart of this annual ball tournament,” says Marcie Dumais, Director of Community Engagement at the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation. “They take Jim’s legacy and Robbie’s hope to give generously to Cancer Care very seriously all while ensuring the event is full of fun and excitement for teams and spectators. They’re inspiring to work with.”
Mark the weekend of September 12-14 on your calendar for all kinds of activities in Lewis Park: exciting slo-pitch games, a photo booth, raffles, bat draw, and more! Donations towards Cancer Care in honour of Jim Lalic and Robbie Thompson can be made directly through the following link: cvhealthcarefoundation.com/community-event-donation.
