Milton’s heroes came to aid of Darling Home

Dear Editor:

In late December, residents of Milton hunkered down as the largest ice storm in 15 years tore through Ontario.

When morning arrived, we woke up to a devastating and spectacular wonderland of ice.

At The Darling Home for Kids, a children’s hospice and respite centre north of Hwy. 401, this moment of awe was short-lived.

Broken tree branches had cut the power to the home and blocked the driveway.

It’s during times of crisis when the “hero” within us is revealed. The morning following the ice storm was the home’s moment of crisis and Milton’s heroes came to our aid.

Four groups must be acknowledged for their heroism.

Volunteers from the Milton Fire Department came when Fire Chief Brian Ellsworth called for help to clear our driveway. Without hesitation and despite the cleanup required at their own homes, firefighters arrived at The Darling Home for Kids with chainsaws to cut through the branches and fallen trees.

Once the driveway was cleared, Brian Gibson, EMS superintendent, Halton Region, quickly deployed an ambulance to help transport six children in wheelchairs and staff members to Milton District Hospital.

When they arrived, the hospital nurses made sure everyone from the home was comfortable. There was never a shortage of warm blankets and smiles as children waited for their parents to pick them up.

Not to be forgotten are the home’s own nurses and support workers, who stayed calm, cool and collected throughout the situation. They made sure that the children, who are medically complex, were comfortable and in good spirits despite the sudden change in plans.

This storm may not be a defining moment for the history books, however our staff and the parents and children who use the home’s services will remember those who helped with fondness and admiration.

Kristin Horrell, executive director

The Darling Home for Kids