We did it!! Thank you Everyone!!

Hi, my name is Amanda Bouvier. I am fundraising for my brother Matt Proctor to make his dream of attending his first NHL hockey game a reality. Matt's favorite team, the Toronto Maple Leafs will be playing in Edmonton on January 16, 2024 against the Edmonton Oilers.

Matt is 52 years old and has quadraplegia. A diving accident when he was 24 yrs old left him paralyzed from the neck down. He was first given 5 years to survive; he has shocked everyone by continuing to fight and now 28 years later he has defied all odds. His will to live and thrive has pulled him through many life threatening medical emergencies.

Matt is generous, caring and a loving friend, uncle, son and brother. Despite his daily challenges he keeps a smile on his face, is happy and can lift everyone's mood with his humor. He is always there for anyone who knows him. Although he has limited means, he loves giving his friends and family gifts. He beams with joy when an action or gift from him makes someone feel special which is why my family and I want to give him this wish.. his first NHL hockey game, live and in person to see his team play!

Matt also helps our community by working for the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan in the Partnership program. This is what his boss had to say about him:

" Matthew Proctor has played a major role as a stigma buster for the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan’s Partnership Program in Saskatoon since 2010. Matt regularly presents to high schools, elementary schools, hospitals, drug and alcohol detox centers, the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, The First Nations University, and to numerous community groups and organizations. He is a team player and is respected by his fellow presenters. Matt has courageously shared his story with thousands of people in Saskatchewan. He has given more Partnership Program presentations than any other presenter in our province. He has given over 750 presentations since he joined the program.

Matt’s story of recovery is often met with a lot of questions from the audience as they are interested in learning more about his recovery from schizophrenia and addictions. Teachers often request to have him present in their classes. His inspiring story of learning to live with quadriplegia and mental health illness combined give the general public hope that people can get their lives back with treatment no matter what they are facing in life. He is an inspiration to everyone on the Partnership Program team. He has also been very supportive to others that have joined our team throughout the years. Matt has left a lasting impact on the mental health community especially in Saskatoon. He is a valued speaker and Partnership Program team member. "

Why are we fundraising?

We have purchased his ticket, now we need help to get Matt from Saskatoon to Edmonton! A daunting logistical task. The funds we raise will go towards transportation costs, food and lodging for Matt while he is in Edmonton. His level of care is high and we will need to find a caregiver or health facility for an overnight stay.

Matt's strength in overcoming his illness and his accident and his continued resilience to live his life and never give up, is an inspiration for us all!

Please help me get my big brother to Roger's Stadium this January!