THUNDER BAY — Community Living Thunder Bay is hosting a weekly barbecue fundraiser to support Boston, a local boy battling Alport’s Syndrome. Boston is currently undergoing dialysis and awaiting a second kidney transplant after his first transplant failed earlier this year.
“Today and every Tuesday, we are having a fundraising barbecue for a young man named Boston,” said Sharon Strachan, Manager of Supported Employment and Community Inclusion at Community Living Thunder Bay. “Boston had a kidney transplant, and unfortunately, it failed. We're doing what we can to support his family right now. Come by and enjoy some Bogdala sausages and 5 Star Bakery buns in support of a great cause.”
This week’s barbecue had some extra excitement thanks to special guests from Paws for Love Dog Rescue, who brought a litter of playful German Shepherd mixes to meet the public.
“Community Living invited us to bring our puppies out to share some cuddles and love,” said Donna White, a volunteer with the rescue. “Hopefully, we’ll find some forever homes in the process.”
Boston was diagnosed with Alport’s Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that affects kidney function. In March, he travelled to London, Ontario, for a kidney transplant. But just two weeks later, severe complications led to emergency surgery. By the end of the month, his family was informed that the transplant had failed. Boston is now receiving dialysis in Toronto while waiting for another donor kidney.
The weekly barbecues have been gaining momentum. “Every week it’s getting bigger. It’s amazing to see the community come together for Boston,” said Strachan.
Amy Longridge, from Employment Services at Community Living Thunder Bay, added, “I would say we've sold over 100 (hot dogs and sausages) since we started this year. Just last week, we sold over 40 in one day.”
Longridge also issued a friendly challenge: “We challenge all Local 7402 members to come out, buy a hot dog, and see how much we can raise together.”
The featured litter, affectionately known as the Peanuts gang, originally had nine puppies. Four were adopted before the barbecue series began, and another found a home during this week’s event, bringing the total to five. Four puppies are still waiting to be adopted.
“We rescue dogs from northern communities,” White explained. “They receive vet care, microchipping, deworming, and vaccinations. Once they’re eight weeks old, they’re ready for adoption.”
To support Boston and his family, visit the Community Living Thunder Bay Facebook page for more information or stop by one of the Tuesday barbecues.
“If any businesses would like to sponsor Boston and his family, they can reach out to me directly at 807-630-6420,” Strachan added.
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