Support Ryan as he starts over after the Jasper wildfires

Hello everyone, as many of you know, my brother Ryan has called Jasper home since 2006. He has been a friendly and outgoing fixture in the community, always focused on building connections. From driving local workers and tourists around town in the cab, to working at D’ed Dog and Nutters, to helping run the Jasper Community Garden, and serving on the board of the Jasper Local Food Society, he’s well-known for spreading good vibes around town.

Unfortunately, Ryan has lost so much in the recent wildfires. Many of you have asked how he’s doing and how you can help. While things are still uncertain, here’s what we know: Ryan’s home in the Sunwapta Apartment building has been reduced to ashes. Right now, no one is allowed back into Jasper. Ryan is staying with our parents as he figures out what the next days, weeks, and months will look like.

During the evacuation, he managed to grab some essentials and his beloved cat Luna, but he had to leave behind most of his belongings. Beyond losing his home and possessions, he’s also lost his work and is separated from his community. But being the free-spirited positive person that he is, he is still finding many reasons to smile and we know he will go with the flow and find his footing again in no time.

He’s given so much to others, and now it’s our turn to support him. While some content insurance will help with replacing some things eventually, starting over from scratch is overwhelming. He’s facing lost wages and the emotional toll of this crisis. We want him to feel empowered to cover immediate expenses, get therapy if he chooses and have the resources to rebuild a comfortable life and space to call home.

When I first mentioned starting this GoFundMe, Ryan was adamant that any money raised should go to charities and those in need. He’s an easy-going guy with a big heart, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t deserve support from his family and friends far and wide. He plans to spend only what he needs and use the rest to help rebuild his community and support others when he can return to Jasper.

Thanks so much for your support and for spreading the word. Let’s show Ryan that we’ve got his back just like he’s always had ours.