Norm Macdonald MLA                                              Columbia River – Revelstoke

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate release

December 4, 2009

Invermere firefighters show their support for Norman Gagatek

INVERMERE – Columbia River – Revelstoke MLA Norm Macdonald sat down with Invermere firefighters on Wednesday to hear their concerns about the availability of health services for fellow firefighter Norman Gagatek.

Gagatek, who suffered a debilitating brain stem stroke in July 2008, is working hard to prepare for an advanced rehabilitation program in Ponoka, Alberta.  Gagatek’s partner Kim Harris and their two children are looking forward to having Norman home, but inconsistencies and delays in the availability of therapy services in Invermere are making recovery difficult.

“I can understand the frustrations of these firefighters,” said Macdonald.  “They want to see their fellow firefighter get the best health care possible, and it doesn’t seem fair that a man who did so much for this community is being left behind when he needs the system’s help.  It seems that the Minister of Health is just giving up on Norman.”

These Invermere firefighters are not going to let their friend down.  They are serious about getting this message across: ‘We’re not giving up on Norman!’

The first step in their campaign was to share their concerns with their Member of the Legislative Assembly.  Further steps will include a letter-writing campaign and the circulation of the petition so the whole community can show their support.

Invermere firefighters plan to reach out to fire firefighters throughout the valley and beyond who also had contact with Gagatek to encourage them to show their support for Norman.  As a well-known area electrician and community volunteer, Gagatek’s impact on valley residents is far-reaching.

Macdonald is encouraging the community to join the firefighters’ campaign.  ‘We’re not giving up on Norman!’ petitions will be available for signing at local businesses, public events and at the fire station.

“We have to stand up for what we believe,” continued Macdonald.  “We believe that when one of us needs a hand, we all pull together to make sure that our neighbor gets the service that he needs.

“That is also what Norman Gagatek believes, and he is the kind of guy that lends a hand when someone needs help.  Now it’s our turn to help Norm.”

Macdonald’s office is also assisting the campaign by providing electronic access to copies of the ‘We’re not giving up on Norman!’ petition and form letter. 

DOWNLOAD 'We're not giving up on Norman!' petition: CLICK HERE

DOWNLOAD 'We're not giving up on Norman!' form letter: CLICK HERE

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