A Tale of Two Storms

Help Chubby Rebuild After A Year of Storms

Hi, my name is Dave, but most of you know me as Chubby. I'm reaching out because this past year has been a storm of challenges, and I need your help to get back on my feet.

My Journey: From Dorian to Disaster

The last five years have been tough, starting with Hurricane Dorian devastating the Bahamas, where I managed Travellers West. The hurricane forced me to close the restaurant, and then COVID-19 hit, sealing the deal. I returned to Toronto and slowly rebuilt my life. I started renting my basement through Airbnb and grew a fleet of cars on Turo. Everything was going well – until this year.

The Emergency

In April, after attending a Turo event, I ended up in the emergency room. I thought I'd be there for just a night, but I ended up staying for months. I had multiple surgeries on both legs, with the final one being a life-saving emergency procedure after I blew open both femoral grafts. I lost a lot of blood, underwent several transfusions, and came dangerously close to losing my leg – and my life.

Back Home – More Challenges

Just when I thought things couldn't get worse, my mom, who lives with me, fell down the stairs and broke her hip. She’s recovering from the surgery but needs help with daily activities and has significant memory issues. On top of that, my autistic son started having kidney problems, and my house was flooded during a recent storm, destroying the basement where my Airbnb business operates. I’ve had to cancel all bookings, and my Turo cars are collecting tickets while they sit unused.

Why I’m Asking for Help

I’m facing a mountain of expenses: I have both an elderly parent and an Autistic Adult son who are dependent on me.

Basement renovations to prevent future flooding and get the Airbnb back up

Medical bills and upcoming surgeries for my leg

Converting my mom’s bathtub to a walk-in shower for her safety

Repairing my cars and catching up on bills

I’m at a point where I can’t do this alone. Every bit of help counts, and it will allow me to rebuild my life after this year of storms.

A Silver Lining

Despite everything, I’ve been blessed with amazing friends and family. Your support has kept me going, and I’m grateful for every visit, call, and word of encouragement.

If you’re able to contribute or even just share this page, it would mean the world to me.

One Love,

Chubby

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can offer!