Raising funds

  

JJ went to TWC then was transferred to Guelph University for assessment. She had a bad injury to her wing. The decision was made that they would have to put her down because the cost of the surgery was big. I was able to reach the founder of the trumpeter swan foundation. Harry Lumsden.We talked for a long time. There were no guarantees for this swan. And the funds just weren't there for a "chance " surgery. If it could be done they could do it. She was strong. I simply asked Harry. If I could come up with the money would they do it? After some discussion,He said okay. After her being on her own ,injured and surviving that horrible adventure. She deserved a chance in our eyes, What we saw was horrible. She needed that chance. The only thing was. She had been slated for euthanization in the morning. Could we catch them in time. It was a long night. I was up early and on the phone. No answer. Again,no answer. Then I got them. We were in time. This swan was going to go into surgery to see what they could do. We had an allotted time frame in which to raise the money. And we were going to do it. Davidsons Restaurant in Big Bay Point were I live agreed to do a big fundraiser. People from all over donated items for the silent auction. Ontario Nature put out a plea for help and people from all over Ontario sent in money. School children raised money and made get well cards for the swan now named JJ. For Jen & Jeff. JJ didnt know it but she was famous. Fundraiser a huge success. Surgery was a success. And we even got everything donated to Wye Marsh that they needed to look after her and give her a permanent home. It was incredible. Overwhelming to say the least. 

And on that note. The man was charged with careless operation of a marine vessel and cruelty under the Migratory Bird Act. Fined and jail. It was all over the news and newspapers. 

If you see something, you can make a difference. Do something. Take photos and take it all in. Report it asap. We can make a difference if we get involved. This day it was a helpless swan already injured.  What was it going to be next time. This is unacceptable behavior that must be reprimanded. Jeff & I were in the right place at the right time. And we just knew what we had to do. And we did it. 

Set up for the fundraiser. I put an educational board together to help people to understand what this was all about.

                                            Lots of great items came in for the silent auction.

                             Even a few prints of JJ herself made a big hit and helped raise money.