Unfettered generosity in a cold world

In late May, preschooler Ostin Boylan Atwell of Grand Pre got the backyard playground he dreamt of. The plans even involved the installation of a track for Ostin to ride his bike. The Children’s Wish Foundation and the CIBC bank produced for the young leukemia patient. But there was more to come.

Wolfville area contractor Marvin Walsh heard about Ostin’s story because his dad works at Rafuse Supplies. Now Marvin had recently purchased a mini four-wheeler equipped with a remote for safety for his own son. When Ostin’s dad John Boylan happened to see the four-wheeler, he said that his son would love one.

So the kind-hearted builder took it upon himself to go to several individuals who know John through the store. He asked for donations to purchase a bike for Ostin. The response was overwhelming, so Marvin was able to purchase, not only the bike, but also a chest protector. A pretty modest guy by nature, Marvin smiles remembering how he dropped off the surprise new toy on what turned out to be Ostin’s fifth birthday.

As most people know contractors are busy people in the spring, so Marvin’s thoughtfulness and a case of overwhelming community support turned into another special day for a great, little kid. There’s a second terrific scenario developing in support of another local family dealing with serious illness. Such backing certainly gladdens one’s heart.

Three years ago a girl became ill and she’s been in the IWK Hospital on and off, mostly on, ever since. The reason for her painful condition continues to be a mystery. Today she is on a feeding tube and uses a wheelchair due to weakness.

In recent months her younger sister, who is in Grade 5, developed similar symptoms and became hospitalized. Their single mother, who is a very private person, has been trying to work by day, while her nights are spent at the hospital in Halifax.

This week the girls are being flown to the Sick Children’s Hospital in Toronto. Hopefully the experts there will figure out what ails them. Meanwhile, community members have been knocking on doors to assist with expenses and loss of income.

A barbecue at Wolfville School raised a whopping $850. Groups, like Rotary and the Women of Wolfville, were approached and contributed. A care team was assembled, while others tried to figure out cheap flights. Those who visited the hospital reaffirmed the enthusiasm of those trying to help by saying how tough the situation is.

Those of us lucky enough to enjoy good health have to jump in and help those who suffer. In a cold world, unfettered generosity marks the human condition.