Isaac Leblanc’s family and friends have been working hard to make sure that things are in place for his return home to Courtenay from the hospital.
After nearly two years of enduring hospital stays, transfers, endless tests, complicated procedures and medicines, doctors' suggestions and unanswered questions, doctors have finally diagnosed Isaac with a rare form of multiple sclerosis called Marburg, but doctors still aren't completely sure of the diagnosis.
Those around Isaac have begun to plan for his return home from the hospital that requires, among other things, renovations of his duplex.
The Comox Valley has rallied around Isaac and his mother Wendy to provide support, and to help with fundraising, volunteering, donations and more. These efforts have all been added together into the Bring Isaac Home campaign.
Wendy was recently astounded by the first corporate donation from the Driftwood Mall for $3,300. This was generously given after they were approached by a friend of Isaac's who has been volunteering to do what she can for her friend in need.
Another local business that has stepped up to put forth a fundraising effort is the Bank of Montreal in Courtenay, which donated the proceeds from their most current raffle basket towards Isaac's campaign. This was done without contacting the Leblanc family as a way for the employees and members from BMO to show Isaac they care.
The total amount raised was an impressive $1,500, which exceeded all other amounts raised by charity raffle baskets that the bank has offered.
In the true spirit of paying it forward we kindly acknowledge a very thoughtful donation made by a stranger who wishes to stay anonymous after he went to Dove Creek Timber and asked to work a day and a half at the facility with all of the wages being donated towards Isaac. Rick Pizzey, owner of Dove Creek Timber, stressed how this was not a wealthy man who made this effort.
A constant at Wendy's side is her sister Debbie, who has done a tremendous amount to co-ordinate large fundraisers at the Courtenay Legion and this year on May 4 at the Elks Hall.
The event on May 4 at the Elks Hall in Courtenay featured music from local musicians and entertainers. There were plenty of amazing silent auction items donated by generous business throughout Vancouver Island. Courtenay Mayor Larry Jangula was out to celebrate the night with his wife and it was a pleasure to see all the smiling faces of people out to support this cause.
Upon Isaac's arrival we watched as he was escorted in with bagpipes playing Amazing Grace. The look on Isaac's face was priceless as people clapped and cheered his name while he maneuvered his wheel chair to the front of the room.
Major thanks go to: WestJet (which donated two round-trip tickets wherever they fly), Superstore, Driftwood Mall, Bank of Montreal Courtenay branch, Island Honda of Courtenay and Mayor Larry Jangula. Over 50 businesses have donated items both big and small for fundraisers!
The fundraising goal is $25,000 and our current total is $10,300. We are waiting to hear back from the government on a $25,000 grant approval, which would cut the approximate cost needed for renovations down to $20,000.
Once we have been accepted and have signed off with a contractor to manage the project, we will begin renovations and can proceed with the second phase of the campaign, which is utilizing the funds raised to prepare Isaac and his home for life outside of the hospital.
— Evangeline Mathura, on behalf of Isaac Leblanc and his family