Danica Rae Yeoman

After a fierce battle against cancer, Danica Rae Yeoman passed away at BC Children's Hospital with family by her side on April 6, 2024, at the age of 14 years.

She will be remembered and sadly missed by her parents, Nick Yeoman and Rachelle Blanchard (Kurtis Norrish); younger sister Kendra Yeoman; lots of “crazy cousins”, aunties, uncles, grandmas, grandpas, family and friends.

Danica was born October 22, 2009, in Abbotsford, BC. She made the world extra special and shared a birthday with her mom. Danica moved to Summerland before her second birthday and has called Summerland home since.

Danica spent many hours dancing and swimming. Over the years she was in ballet, tap, acro, musical theatre and hip-hop dances. She began swimming at a few months old and continued her love of water whether it was the pool or the lake. Danica played softball, volleyball, archery and karate. She loved many outdoor activities including skiing, riding ATVs, camping and biking. Danica was an amazing artist and has a large collection of artwork. She never shied away from trying new activities. Danica loved her two cats, Tigger and Figaro who slept with her every night. Danica was always surrounded by many amazing friends. There were many hours spent at the beach with friends. Danica loved her friends dearly and they helped Danica get through hard times.

Danica won a fast and furious battle against Burkitt Lymphoma in 2020. Even cancer couldn’t slow Danica down as she went skiing as soon as she got the go-ahead from her doctor. It resulted in a broken ankle. Despite that, she was back on skis by the end of the season. She was cancer-free for three years when a new tumour was found during her checkup. Danica was diagnosed with renal Ewing Sarcoma. Danica was always amazing doctors and nurses with her positive attitude and spirit. She passed the time in the hospital watching Marvel and Star Wars, playing Mario games and watching Vancouver Canucks.

Thank you to our amazing medical team at BCCH- Dr. Harvey, Dr. Baadjes, Suzanne, Ilana, and the many nurses and doctors who all became like family. They even took special care of Wilbur, her stuffed animal pig, who went to every appointment with her.

Thank you to Ronald McDonald House. Danica spent over 200 nights at RMH throughout her treatments. She spent many hours crafting, playing hockey, baking and watching Canucks games in the lounge. It became a home away from home where friends became family. RMH staff and volunteers provided Danica with amazing opportunities to attend Canucks games including a VIP experience. Danica was always smiling and was brave through every battle with these supports and friendships.

Danica’s Celebration of Life will be on Saturday, May 25 at 1:00 pm at Summerland Middle School, 13611 Kelly Avenue, Summerland, BC. Reception to follow. 

The family invites everyone to wear Canucks jerseys, SMS, SSS, Inhouse Dance, or Karate Dojo clothing, Crocs or anything that connects you with Danica.

Please consider making a donation to Ronald McDonald House in Danica’s honour.

Danica will be remembered by all of us as "Forever 14".