Penina Rubinoff, a’h, was an exemplary Toronto mother of four whose compassion and generosity were experienced far beyond the realm of her private family unit. Diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 35, she valiantly battled the dreadful disease for almost five years until her untimely passing in 1989. Despite the pain and challenges she experienced throughout her ordeal, chesed (good deeds) and tzedaka (charity) remained not just values that she idealized, but areas in which she completely immersed herself and remained active. Although it often was difficult and even painful, she always tried to maintain a normal family life. To her, family was everything. Indeed, when she learned that her cancer was terminal, she  exclaimed, “But what will become of my children?”

PENINA’S HELPING HAND is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary woman who will always be remembered for her love, compassion, and tzedaka. Chai Lifeline Canada is the Canadian affiliate of Chai Lifeline, the international children’s health support organization. Our year-round programs and services offer unparalleled emotional and social support to each member of the ill child’s family. Case management, counseling, innovative tutorial programs, special trips, gala holiday parties, toy drives, family retreats, and crisis intervention services bring help and hope to children, families, and communities. Every year, Canadian children with life-threatening or lifelong illnesses enjoy a refreshing vacation from pain and isolation at Camp Simcha , named in memory of Dr. Samuel Abraham, and Camp Simcha Special, dedicated in memory of Zvi Dovid Obstfeld. They return home rejuvenated and ready to fight their illnesses for another year. All services are provided with professionalism and confidentiality, and are free of charge to families.