Skip to content

VIDEO: New COVID policy allowing small groups results in reunion for Langley family

For the first time in a long time, the Fairholms were able to have lunch with their son’s family
24514946_web1_copy_210313-LAT-Saturday-in-the-ark-family_1
On Saturday, March 13, Donald and Ieneke Fairholm (L) were able to have their first lunch in a very long time with son Don, daughter-in-law Stephanie Spyksma and grandson Adrian, outdoors at Yorkson Community Park under new rules that allow small gatherings (Dan Ferguson/Langley Advance Times)

Willoughby resident Donald Fairholm called it a “small step” in the right direction.

On Saturday, March 13, the first weekend after provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry gave a thumbs-up to small outdoor gatherings, Fairholm sat down to a casual lunch in Yorkson Community Park in Langley with his wife Ieneke, and son Don Fairholm, daughter-in-law Stephanie Spyksma and their son, three-year old Adrian, who had driven out from Abbotsford to visit.

“I think it’s a positive step,” said Fairholm.

“It’s the first time since the fall of last year that I can sit down to lunch with my son.”

It has been a long time since the two families have been able to get together like that, Stephanie said.

“We haven’t had a meal together since we were told not to,” she advised the Langley Advance Times, in between playing Frisbee with Adrian, who had also brought a basketball along for the reunion.

Don Fairholm was optimistic the announcement by Dr. Henry will lead to more steps moving the province toward normal.

“I am very hopeful,” he said.

“I’m just relieved,” Ieneke commented.

READ ALSO: Major COVID-19 outbreak reported at Langley glass manufacturer

Both families wore masks when they weren’t eating.

Other small groups of people could seen congregating at the same park, taking advantage of the sunny weather.

READ ALSO: B.C. relaxes outdoor gathering rules, allows kids to have playdates

On Thursday Dr. Bonnie Henry announced outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people were now allowed, although it must be the same “safe 10,” similarly to last year’s “safe six.”

Henry said people must still keep up physical distancing even when meeting up outdoors with their “safe 10.”

Henry also relaxed rules around play dates for children, although she did note that children should choose a safe group of friends, stick to those children for their cohort and to keep it outdoors.


Is there more to the story? Email: dan.ferguson@langleyadvancetimes.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
24514946_web1_210313-LAT-Saturday-in-the-ark-Adrian-F_1
Adrian Fairholm, 3, tosses a Frisbee at Yorkson Community Park on Saturday, March 3, as families go together under new rules that allow small gatherings (Dan Ferguson/Langley Advance Times)


Dan Ferguson

About the Author: Dan Ferguson

Best recognized for my resemblance to St. Nick, I’m the guy you’ll often see out at community events and happenings around town.
Read more