Stronger Together: Anita Roberts' Journey | East Vancouver Community Rallies Around Local Family

by Madison Foss

🌿 Community Spotlight: Strength, Gratitude & the Power of Community In East Vancouver

At East West Market located on Main street in East Vancouver, we have always believed that a neighborhood grocery store is more than a place to shop — it is a place where community comes together. This past year, that belief was beautifully reaffirmed through the journey of two of our most cherished customers, Jeff and Anita Roberts.

When Anita was diagnosed with cancer last year, the East West Market family — staff, customers, and neighbors throughout the Main Street community — came together to support her and her family. Through a community GoFundMe campaign, in-store flyers, and the generosity of countless patrons, together we raised over $32,400 to help support Anita during her treatment journey.

After seven months of intensive chemotherapy and radiation, Anita recently received the incredible news from her oncologist: she is cancer-free.

In Anita’s own words:

“After intensive rounds of chemotherapy and radiation over 7 months I am pleased to say that my Oncologist has given me the amazing news of being cancer free… From the first hug Dave gave me when he heard of my diagnosis, to the hug we shared when we learned the final result, my faith in the goodness of people and the importance of community has been renewed.”

Although recovery continues, Anita and Jeff describe themselves as filled with gratitude and hope — deeply touched by the meals, herbal remedies, prayers, and kindness shared by so many neighbors.

“East West is like family to my husband Jeff and I,” Anita shared. “From Dave to the staff and everyone who walks through the doors — they are our whole East West family.”

Stories like Anita's remind us how local businesses in Vancouver play an important role in supporting community wellbeing. 

🌸 About Anita Roberts

Anita Roberts is widely recognized as one of Canada’s leading advocates for women’s empowerment and violence prevention. Since 1976, she has dedicated her life to supporting safer communities through education and advocacy.

Her work includes serving as a Canadian representative to the United Nations during the Year of the Woman, contributing to the Federal Task Force on the Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children, and creating SafeTeen: Powerful Alternatives to Violence, a program that has helped empower youth across Canada.

Anita is also an award-winning and best-selling author whose work continues to inspire generations. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to Canada, she has received both the Governor General’s Medal and the King Charles III Coronation Medal, awarded by the Governor General of Canada in recognition of her outstanding community service and advocacy.

Anita receiving the King Charles III Coronation Medal

🏀 About Jeff Gourley

Anita’s husband, Coach Jeff Gourley, is a pillar of the East Vancouver community and a legendary figure in Canadian basketball development.

 

For over 25 years as Head Coach of the Sir Charles Tupper Tigers, Jeff has mentored hundreds of young athletes, leading teams to multiple city and provincial championships while emphasizing life skills, leadership, and education. His contributions to youth sports and community building have earned numerous honors, including:

  • BC High School Coach of the Year
  • The Rich Goulet Lifetime Achievement Award (2025)
  • King Charles III Coronation Medal for Community Service (2025)
  • Induction into the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame

Through initiatives like the East Vancouver Summer Basketball Camp of Champions, Jeff has provided accessible programming that has shaped generations of local youth — many of whom have gone on to university athletics and professional careers.

❤️ A Community That Shows Up

Jeff and Anita’s journey reminds us that community is built through everyday connections — a conversation at the checkout counter, a shared meal, or a simple act of kindness.

At East West Market, we are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed, supported, and stood alongside this family during a difficult time. Together, we showed what makes this neighborhood so special.

Congratulations, Anita — your strength inspires us all. We are honored to celebrate this milestone with you and Jeff.

— East West Market Family

Jeff and Anita's Gourley at home, sharing a moment together-- a reflection of the strength and partnership that carried them throughout the year:

Featured on CityNews Vancouver

Our community’s support for Anita was recently featured on CityNews Vancouver. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who came together to show kindness and support during this difficult time.

Check the video out below: 

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