Main fundraiser photo

Help Make a Difference in Christopher's Life!

Donation protected
Hi, my name is Nikki, and I am raising funds to improve the quality of Christopher Bessette's life.

As many of you know, Christopher is a talented writer, film director, and dedicated teacher. I believe he would say that his highest priorities are God, his devoted wife, Toni, and his beloved family. Chris is someone who truly lives out his faith.

Fifteen years ago, Chris was diagnosed with MS. The disease progressed, and he was confined to a wheelchair five years ago. Chris began to suffer from blood clots in his legs, and last April, he was rushed to Hamilton as he was bleeding in his brain. Chris underwent two emergency surgeries to remove a total of 3 blood clots from his brain.

Chris spent the following months in a stroke clinic where he had many challenges, including CLL cancer and Covid. He was later moved to a rehabilitation hospital, but his recovery was slow due to his MS.

Chris is currently living in long-term care. He has only the use of his left arm, and his speech is also impaired.

Chris's health crisis means he is no longer able to work. His CPP (and later his Old Age Pension) are paid directly to the long-term care facility. The loss of Chris's income has had a significant impact on the family. Toni has a busy full-time job and spends most of her spare time with Chris, loving and encouraging him while advocating for obtaining the best treatment possible.

Chris and Toni are my dear friends, and seeing them go through such a difficult time in their lives has challenged me to want to do more to help them on a practical level. The Bessette family has been a blessing to so many, and I believe now is the time to do what we can to help lighten their burden. Together I know we can make a difference!

The funds will be used for the following:

  • Offset the cost of Chris's new wheelchair
  • Living and transportation expenses incurred by Toni & the family that may exceed their income
  • The future purchase of an "Assist" device that will help facilitate Chris's communication. The device will significantly improve his quality of life.
Donate

Donations 

    Donate

    Organizer and beneficiary

    Nikki Hollingshead
    Organizer
    St. Catharines, ON
    Toni Bessette
    Beneficiary

    Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

    • Easy

      Donate quickly and easily

    • Powerful

      Send help right to the people and causes you care about

    • Trusted

      Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee