Local youth chosen 'Maritimer of the Week'

BY FRED LAWRENCE

The Hants Journal

NovaNewsNow.com

It's not often a 'secret plan' goes off without a hitch, but that’s exactly what happened in Windsor Friday, Aug. 16.

Hants Aquatic Centre employee and volunteer Ryan Harvie was stunned when CTV's camera crew and reporter Kate Udle arrived onsite at the new pool to present Harvie with the 'Maritimer of the Week' award.

Udle said when the news team received a letter from Jordan Stephen’s mother Roseanna Boyd, they were deeply touched. “When we got the letter from Roseanna on Wednesday of this week (Aug. 15) all of us in the newsroom were really moved by it. It’s an unbelievable story about a relationship between a very caring young man and a disabled eight-year-old boy who share a bond,” she said.

“Plus it's great to end the week with a positive piece because there’s so much bad news happening all the time. This shows there are young people out there who do a lot for their communities and really make a positive difference in the life of someone less fortunate.”

Jordan's mother said the friendship between her son, who has cerebral palsy, and Harvie has helped Jordan. “He’s so happy when he’s with Ryan. Last year they swam together and this year Jordan asked if he could be with Ryan. Then I found out Ryan had asked if he could help with Jordan, so I guess it was meant to be. It has been wonderful and has brought Jordan so much happiness.”

High praise

Boyd said Jordan's twin brother Justin holds high praise for Harvie. “He thinks he just the coolest guy ever.” Boyd said she wanted to surprise Harvie and few in attendance could doubt her success in that.

Harvie said he was overwhelmed by the attention and was caught off-guard.

“I had no idea this was going to happen. It's great and all, but that's not why I do this. I just love helping out and Jordan is a very special little guy; he has been a pleasure to work with.”

Harvie, a recent graduate of Avon View High, said he plans to continue his work with special needs children and is going to study psychology at University of Prince Edward Island this fall.

Windsor Recreation Director Janet Landry said the event was a great way to cap off the swim season. “Ryan is such a nice young man. He's one of our summer staff and is always willing to help out. He came in a half-hour early each day to volunteer with Jordan so I'm really happy for him to receive this award. It's great for both of them.”

Landry said volunteering is a big part of the pool's success and that everyone is welcome from all walks of life. “For us, it's all about inclusion: we want everyone, of all abilities, to feel this pool belongs to them. What Ryan has done for Jordan is exceptional because he has enhanced Jordan's abilities outside his wheelchair and that's the type of spirit that has helped to create this wonderful family facility.”