It was an emotional day for the Jones family at Dark Hour Ink.
Dalonna Jones celebrated her 40th birthday in the ICU at the University of Alberta Hospital after suffering a medical episode in her home on Christmas Day of 2024. She was approved for organ donation on Jan. 3 after efforts to bring her back from a coma were unsuccessful.
It didn't take long for the Lloydminster community to rally together in an effort to help the grieving family.
Desiree Cornet-Wile, co-owner of Dark Hour Ink, was ready to do what she could.
"All tattoo's done today, the price point is between $100 and $200. All the proceeds are going to Dalonna's family," explained Cornet-Wile on Jan. 26, the day of the flash tattoo sale.
Dalonna's sister, Jackie Jones, was on hand getting a tattoo to honour Dalonna.
"I'm getting a rose, in honour of my sister. So my niece and I are actually getting the same roses," said Jackie.
She says she's been taking it day by day but has seen the family come together through these difficult times.
The tattoos were designed in honour of the late Dalonna.
Lyle Jones, Dalonna's dad, was also showing off some ink he had recently received for his family.
The Jones family, like dozens of others, were there getting tattoos in honour of Dalonna.
"Pretty special, a lot of us have never had one before. She liked tattoos, so we just figured we would do a tattoo in honour of her," said Lyle.
He says the outpouring of support from the community has been amazing.
"Super, phenomenal, I didn't realize how much the community would come together for something like this," Lyle said.
Dark Hour Ink took it a step further with their support.
"We also have a silent auction, all those proceeds from the silent auction will go to Dalonna's family as well," explained Cornet-Wile.
She explained they too have been through difficult times and are happy to give back.
"We've been through our own hardships and it's just nice to be able to give back and just let them know there is people out there that care," said Cornet-Wile.
She says Lloydminster is an amazing community and knows they'll always rally around others in times of need.
"Especially in the times of grief like that, that storm, it's just nice to have those outlets of people that are there to help with whatever they may need at that time."
Read more: Christmas tragedy sparks community support
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