New wheels

Gary's been making good progress at the West Park Healthcare Centre in Toronto. Earlier this week, we got a sneak peek at the wheelchair that will help bring him home:

His recovery continues at a remarkable pace. Gary even got into the summer swing of things by downing a bit of ice cream.

We're hoping to have have him back here real soon. Only one major obstacle still remains - getting a generator to power the equipment Gary will need once he's back here in Muskoka. Other than that, we're full steam ahead at bringing him home!

What's Up gives a shoutout to Gary

Our good friends at our award-winning local newspaper, What's Up Muskoka, took the time this week to share some kind words about our friend Gary.

This month, we are heading into ChautauquaFest, a new, 10-day celebration of arts and culture that runs from Aug.14-23. The festival is the culmination of nearly 20 years worth of hard work that Gary and his wife Gayle have put into Muskoka Chautauqua, its brand, its programs and its vision.

Unfortunately, while Gary is on the way home, it appears he will not be in Muskoka for this monumental occasion. This massive festival features over 20 events throughout Muskoka that encompasses the visual, literary, dramatic and musical arts - the essence of what Muskoka Chautauqua is all about.

Gary will be following along with this festival from his hospital bed. He is hoping his community will be having a great time on his behalf at this inaugural festival while he is away.

We're on track to bring Gary home, but a generator is still the major obstacle standing in the way of his return. Otherwise, the journey home continues at full speed.

Stay tuned friends!

Another encouraging step closer to home

More encouraging news this week for Gary. We've just learned that Gary has been accepted to a ventilator program at the West Park Healthcare Centre in Toronto!

What this means is that now Gayle and volunteers will receive training on the ventilation system that will ultimately allow Gary to come home. The training is expected to begin soon. We've already received some interest from some locals, which include a volunteer firefighter from our local Port Carling station. However, we're always seeking the company of more friends, and are still taking in volunteers for this role.

The biggest challenge for now still remains in getting a generator to power the equipment for Gary once he comes home. But one way or another, we're hoping to be able to bring Gary home very, very soon.

Stay tuned!