Help us get Barrie Back!

Ryan Barrie doesn’t just love the drums, he’s obsessed. His life has been led completely by his love for the instrument and how music brings joy to his community. At 35, Ryan, otherwise known as “Barrie”, has performed and recorded with upwards of ten musical projects throughout New Brunswick, including Waylon Napadogan, Kylie Fox, Too Bad Jim and Wicked Vices. He has taught drums to young musicians, and even performed at their birthday parties. He spearheaded a campaign to raise money to replace a fellow drummer's stolen drumkit, he has, as of late, taken on a career where he actively fosters the drumming community world wide, and he recently got married at his favourite music venue where he played his first show. To Barrie, drumming isn’t just a job or hobby, it’s a way of life.

In January 2024, Barrie’s way of life was shattered. A simple coughing fit turned into debilitating lower back pain, countless medical appointments and unanswered questions. He could no longer play drums, having to say goodbye to one of his bands and putting another on hold, cancelling numerous gigs, disability EI, and getting driven around as he lay down in the back seat. He drums through the pain on occasion to alleviate some of the mental toll of his new reality.

After countless referrals and consultations with different specialized surgeons, it became clear that Barrie would have to look outside of Canada for this procedure if he wanted to get back to drumming, and regain his quality of life in a timely way. Eventually he found Dr. Alvin Jones, located in Ohio, who was the first professional who had some understanding of Barrie’s condition and willingness to help.

On November 10th, Barrie will undergo lower back (cluneal nerve decompression) surgery in Cincinnati. The couple applied to have this procedure covered in part by Canadian Medicare but their application was rejected and they must pay for it out of pocket. At the start of their marriage and their careers, they look forward to living a life without pain, and looking to their community to help save Barrie’s Back!

How can you help

Your donation will go directly towards:

The surgery and medical bills - the procedure is slated to cost $18,000 USD ($25,200 CAD)

Travel and accommodations - the couple will be in Cincinnati from Nov. 6th - Nov 15th (9 days total if all goes according to plan)

How you can help today

Donate what you can! Every bit will help.

Share this campaign! And hug your favourite drummer.