Catherine Savage: A Pioneer in Harm Reduction

Support Cathi: A Beacon of Hope in Ottawa's Harm Reduction Community

Dear friends, neighbors, and fellow advocates,

We come together today to rally around an incredible individual who has dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of Ottawa's most vulnerable. Cathi, a long-time social worker and a true pioneer in the field of Harm Reduction, has faced an unimaginable tragedy. On August 14, 2023, she tragically lost her beloved son Nathan.

For over two decades, Cathi has been a guiding light in Ottawa's community, tirelessly working to create a safer and more compassionate space for those battling addiction and facing the perils of drug use. Her unwavering dedication and pioneering efforts have paved the way for the harm reduction sites that stand as beacons of hope today. Cathi's approach is not just professional but deeply personal – she's the kind of person who shoots from the hip and gives her all, every single day.

Now, in this time of immense sorrow and grief, Cathi needs our support more than ever. While she has been a pillar of strength for countless others, she now finds herself navigating the painful journey of loss and healing. As a community, we have the opportunity to come together and offer our help.

We are launching this GoFundMe campaign to provide Cathi and her family with the support they need during this trying time. The funds raised will help ease the financial burdens that accompany such a loss and allow Cathi to take the time she needs to grieve, heal, and eventually find a way to move forward. The impact of overdose reaches farther and wider than we often realize – it can touch any one of us, reminding us that it's not an isolated issue, but a shared concern that requires empathy and action.

Let's show Cathi that her dedication and compassion have not gone unnoticed. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. Together, we can honor Nathan's memory by helping his mother when she needs it most.

Please consider donating and sharing this campaign within your networks. Every dollar and every share counts. Your support sends a powerful message of solidarity and care, letting Cathi know that she is not alone in this journey.

Thank you for joining hands with us during this challenging time. Your generosity and kindness are deeply appreciated.

Nathan

Nathan a true Irish ginger ... was light hearted and as foolish as could be.... he was a hard worker and worked 12 hours a day driving heavy equipment and welding, he worked the oil fields for many years as well, he loved anything with wheels, from 4 x4 's to motorcycles or big trucks, he excelled at basketball and hockey, he was a boxer and gained many awards, he was a good son and helped immensely with his Dads palliative care at home and was a great support to me and his family at that time, he was a good brother, he never hurt a soul and was compassionate about the people that hurt, he loved his work at the SGH, and spoke endearingly about folks that struggled, he died trying to get better , fly my love fly Love Mom

With heartfelt gratitude.