Over $3300 raised to help local resident get MS procedure

Cornwall Ontario — Over $3300 was raised Friday and Saturday night at La Maison to help Julie Smith diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) get a surgical procedure only available in the United States and overseas. The procedure, which is called CCSVI Liberation, costs over $13,000 and could help improve her quality of life.

Many local bands volunteered to play the show this past weekend: Shake The Tree, Whiskey Sour, Heatley and Freakboy, Maximum 80, Elly May, The Trevor Walsh Group, Lovesick Mistress, Switchgear, and Heroes Fall.

Friday was a very busy night, and the Saturday show sold-out after just one hour. Julie Smith said, “Its overwhelming to see the love and support from my loved ones and friends.” The musicians who played the benefit concert were happy to help out.

Trevor Walsh who played an eclectic and amazing set Saturday night was ecstatic about playing the concert which featured some top-notch local music talent. He said, “Great night last night at the Julie Smith benefit. We were so happy to contribute our time and talent to help out a great family. Cornwall is still where Canadian talent is rocking.”

Jamie Jarvo, who is the lead singer of Switchgear, had a similar opinion about the night and about Cornwall’s music community. According to Jarvo, “it was a great night of music tonight at La Maison for a great cause, so many great bands! We had a blast and enjoyed ourselves a ton! This is one of the very reasons I love our City of Cornwall, especially musicians in this city, together we can accomplish anything!”

Julie’s husband Brian Smith, who plays in both Shake the Tree and in Lovesick Mistress, reflected about the success of the two-day concert and how the music community came together to help out.

“As I wake up this morning I am reminded of the old saying, “We take care of our own”. Cornwall and friends did just that this weekend. Brotherhood is strong in the City. We raised about $3300 not counting the private donations on the website www.help-ms.com. Thank you”, said Brian Smith.

If you were unable to attend the concert, but would still like to make a donation, donations can be made online at help-ms.com

The Local Seeker would like wish Julie and the Smith Family all the best.