Jacob Hurl Injured Dec 11 Building Collapse

On Friday, December 11, 2020, like many of you, I was shocked to hear the news of the partial building collapse in London, Ontario. The media shared details about workers trapped for hours and workers who had lost their lives. What was even more shocking was to learn a few days later from Mary Keetch it was her & William Hurl’s son, Jacob Hurl, who was trapped for many hours and now a patient in critical care at LHSC.

Jacob’s first chapter of his recovery journey is completely unbelievable - from possibly losing his life, to possibly losing his legs to finally being discharged from the hospital 28 days after the injury. Jacob’s journey to full recovery has just started, and it will be a long and expensive one. Jacob and his family will face many costs ranging from physical supports in their home to supports assisting him with the mental impact of such a traumatic event. I have been fortunate enough to share some moments with Jacob over the past 28 days.  I am not too often truly inspired, but this young 22-year-old has demonstrated courage, strength, determination and selflessness. I am truly in awe over what he has gone through from the moment of the sound of the collapse to the present day; his optomistic outlook for his future is always expressed when he shares his experiences.

William, Mary and Jacob are amazing, wonderful people who have always been there for many of us.  This family has always supported fundraisers and community events, consistently donates to charities, and lends a helping hand to people in need. This Go Fund Me will show them what community means during their difficult and challenging time.

I had previously contacted the organizer of the “Workers Affected by London, ON Building Collapse” Go Fund Me page, to confirm if Jacob will be a recipient of any of these funds.  The organizer has not responded; furthermore, Jacob is not an employee of East Elgin Concrete Forming, so it appears unlikely he will be a recipient.