Local support for Schomberg family

January 7, 2015 · 0 Comments

By Mark Pavilons
As we take time to reflect on our own lives, it’s important to support families who have a lot on their plates.
A local businessman wants to show a Schomberg family the community has their backs.
Dave Budweth, of Nobleton Feed Mill, is challenging local business owners to pitch in and help ease the burdens of a family whose young daughter has a life-threatening illness.
Abigail Eveson, 18 months, was born with multiple congenital heart defects and the biggest concern is the blood flow out of the heart to become oxygenated by the lungs. The condition, as in Abby’s case, is evident at birth.
Abby received her first open heart surgery within 16 hours of her birth, June 19, 2013 and spent a week in CCCU (Cardiac Critical Care Unit) at Toronto’s SickKids.
Parents Craig and Becky have been on a roller coast ride, often dropping what they’re doing at a moment’s notice, taking Abby to the hospital. Becky has taken a leave from her long-term care position and Craig, a King Township roads employee and volunteer firefighter, often rushes home at a moment’s notice. Craig uses most of his vacation time to stay home with Charlie when Becky and Abby are at the hospital.
The Evesons are tired, but surprisingly upbeat and strong. They have to be.
Budweth and Nobleton Councillor David Boyd felt they had to help out.
Budweth noted when we reflect on the mundane aspects of our lives – cranky kids, stressful bed times – it seems inconsequential compared to what the Evesons go through. Budweth has three healthy children of his own and he feels quite lucky.
“I can’t fathom the problems they actually have,” he said.
Schomberg Minor Hockey has also gotten behind the Evesons and began fundraising for the family. And Budweth made the rounds in Nobleton, asking merchants for help, too.
He’s received support so far from Nobleton Feed Mill, $500; Greenside Drive Landscaping, $500; Cappuccino Bakery, $500; Schomberg Farm, $500; Lori and Peggy Kenny, $250; Boynton Bros. Sod Farm, $500; Gabriele Holdings, $500; King Automotive Repair Shop (KARS), $150; Mario’s Bake Shop, $250 and Chiefswood Stable, $500.
“The response from local businesses has been great with little or no hesitation to give to Abby,” Budweth said. “It helps to show there’s business and community support for them.”
Budweth is extending a challenge to the community to help the Evesons with their ongoing expenses. You can contact him at dave@nobletonfeedmill.com, or Councillor Boyd at dboyd@king.ca.