In 2005 Bracebridge OPP officers Andy Potts and Matt Hanes were responding to a domestic call in Bala when their cruiser struck a moose on the roadway. The impact killed Potts and left Hanes severely injured.
After months of rehabilitation Hanes was able to return to service but he met with Bob Potts, Andy’s father, to discuss ways they could keep Andy’s memory alive.
Hospice Muskoka Executive Director Sandra Winspear explains what happened next.
The Andy Potts Memorial Foundation was formed and began all manner of fundraising initiatives but in 2012 the focus shifted with the idea of creating a Hospice in Andy’s name. The partnership with Hospice Muskoka followed soon after and for the next six years, the goal became to raise the money and get the land for the 8,500 square foot facility that will provide end of life palliative care serving patients from South and West Muskoka.
It required some generous giving including one local philanthropist who has made a lot happen.
He has also provided a substantial amount towards the 2.5 million goal, with funding at 75%, allowing the project to finally break ground this summer with a completion date of April 2019.
The groundbreaking takes place on Thursday evening at the donated land with a reception to follow at the Port Carling community centre at 6:30.
For more information on Hospice Muskoka go to https://www.hospicemuskoka.com/who-are-we and for information on the Andy Potts Memorial Fund visit https://andypottsmemorialfoundation.com/