Coming Through For Drew

May 09, 2013

Over 450 supporters filled the Frontenac Community Arena on May 4 for a special fundraising event in support of Drew Cumpson and his family. Drew who became a quadriplegic after a surfing mishap in Lima, Peru and who now uses a wheelchair will soon be moving with his parents Heather and Jim Cumpson into a new home in Westbrooke specially designed and built to meet their needs. Over $30,000 was raised at the event, which was organized by Drew's friends and family members, Leslie Wateman, Lynne and Karen Peters, Lynne Young and Marilyn Cumpson. Up for grabs at the event were over 140 donated items, all on display for a live and silent auction. The $20 ticket price included a late night buffet and all night dancing courtesy of local bands, Bauder Road, Still Standing and Killing Time.

Drew was inundated with well wishers who crowded around him throughout the evening. His long time friend Brittany spoke at the event and read a letter she wrote to him after first hearing of his accident. “As upset as I am.... I know that if anyone can tough out this situation it's you, ” she read. She ended by addressing Drew directly: “You are an amazing person and I am so proud to call you my friend.” Lynne Peters also spoke and said she was overwhelmed by the outpouring of community support. She said to Drew’s fans, “Let's now show our support and help to bring Drew home.”

Organizer Leslie Wateman said she was not especially surprised by the incredible turnout at the event. “Drew has given so much support to so many people in the community over the years, which is why there are so many people here tonight.” Drew's fans and supporters included, of course, family and countless friends from university, high school and elementary school and also people from the community whom Drew met during his four-year stint when he was a lifeguard and taught swimming lessons at the Verona beach.

I asked Drew how he was feeling. “I haven't seen a lot of these people since before my accident so for me tonight is a great chance to catch up with them.” Hats off to all of the organizers, donors and guests whose efforts made May 4 a very memorable occasion for Drew and his family, and which indeed were a great help in bringing Drew and his family home.