Helen's Lenten Story

This is what Helen Williams kindly submitted when asked to write an article about the energy savings she made in her apartment unit:

"I did it! After years of planning and saving I did two major renovations in 2024. The first was to install a walk-in-shower (with heated floor) to enable me to live independently for longer. The second was to install new windows to replace the original windows from the 50’s. My family had been telling me for years that I had been personally heating Stanley Park which is just outside my living room window. A three-month reno turned into a six-month reno ~ think permits! At last, seven triple-pane windows were installed. It was also recommended that I install timers on all my heaters, so that rooms are heated only at the right time in the right room. I just received my BC Hydro bill, and my energy usage has been reduced by 41%!"

This journey began in 2007 when she and her husband, Douglas, initiated a savings plan to upgrade their home in an old Vancouver building, to make it more comfortable and energy efficient. What Helen didn’t mention is that after 10 years of savings, her eldest son, her brother and then Douglas – all died within a four-month span.

In addition to these immeasurable losses, Helen’s apartment was flooded and repaired twice; she endured several hospital stays, and then Covid hit - delaying renovations. Construction issues and ever-changing city building codes further stalled the renovations.

Determination, resilience and fortitude kept her dream alive. Her faith led to her own Lenten story about reducing energy consumption.

As we explore our own creative ways to reduce consumption and to advocate for a healthier climate, Helen’s story is a reminder to us all - there will be setbacks, losses and sometimes unwelcome change. But faith, love and perseverance will generate amazing results.

To quote our favourite frog, “It’s not easy being green.” Helen is a testament to this.