Friends, family and work colleagues are coming together to help firefighter Barret Smith of Port McNicoll who recently suffered a debilitating stroke.
Smith's lifelong friend Greg Bertram set up a GoFundMe account on July 10 after learning Smith remains in hospital since his stroke in late June, forcing the family to travel back and forth to St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto.
Barret "has spent most of his adult life dropping what he's doing to rush out and help members of his community and now he needs help from the community," wrote Bertram in the GoFundMe account.
An initial fundraising goal of $10,000 was established July 10. Bertram increased the goal to $20,000 when he realized his recovery may be long term.
Bertram updated the account saying, "The response has been incredible ... but really, the need is limitless. We don't know what lies ahead for Barret and his family. There may be a need to outfit the house once he has recovered enough to come home."
As of July 21, $17,365 had been raised.
Smith, 48, has been volunteer firefighter with the Tay Township Fire and Emergency Services since 1999.
"He is one of our longest serving members who is valued for his local knowledge," said Chief Shawn Aymer.
"The halls and individuals have donated to the GoFundMe and the family directly. Members of his hall are also looking to assist with any renovations that may be required," said Aymer.
Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so through the GoFundMe account.
