About Kootenay Livin’ Apparel

Apparel with a purpose

Kootenay Livin’ Apparel was created by (me!) Karli Melnychuk. I was born and raised in the Creston Valley, and grew up doing exploring many outdoor activities & participating in sports. I've has always had a passion and appreciation for nature. Growing up in the Kootenays I was always doing something in the mountains. Dirt biking, bush cruisin', fishing, hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, and everything in between. 

 In 2021 my husband and I became new parents and we knew right away that that we wanted to teach our kids the importance and the appreciation of the outdoor Kootenay lifestyle. 

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I was inspired to create a Mental health clothing line and a Kootenay cancer collection by being a cancer survivor myself. In 2015 I was diagnosed with stage 3, Nodular sclerosis, Hodgkin's Lymphoma (blood cancer.) Where I underwent chemotherapy at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital in Cranbrook,BC. In 2016 I was declared "in remission." I have created an Instagram platform called "Life after Lymphoma" where I connect with cancer survivors/fighters all over the map!

Every Kootenay cancer item that is purchased 20% of the sales will be donated directly to the Cranbook,BC oncology department. My mental health apparel line was created to help get people talking, ending the shame/stigma, and encouraging people struggling to reach out and get the right help.

With building this brand I hope to capture the love and community that we all share for livin' in the Kootenays.

Providing quality clothing, happy customers and creating a brand that I am proud of is very important.

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Happy shopping!

Thanks for supporting Kootenay Livin Apparel.