One Family’s Journey of Transformation and Generosity

June and Bruce Webster share a story of their son Curtis marked by challenges, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his well-being. 
 
Curtis, who was born with cancer, fell seriously ill and was rushed to SickKids Hospital, where he received his diagnosis at just one year of age. June explains, “… in one moment, our lives were turned upside down.” After treatment, Curtis returned home, cancer free, but the cost was high. Due to the extent of his illness, Curtis is deafblind with a developmental disability. He attended his local school with support from W. Ross MacDonald, a school for the blind and deafblind, graduating in 2007. While this support was critical for the family, Curtis needed so much more. Bruce explains, “Outside of school, it was very hard for us. We had to adjust our lifestyle to his needs. We couldn’t go out independently.”  
 
Initially consumed by the complexities of caring for Curtis, June and Bruce found the help they needed when he began receiving support from DeafBlind Ontario Services. Curtis moved into a supported living home in 2016. While there were concerns about moving Curtis from the family home, they recognized the importance of securing his future and ensuring he received the specialized support he needed. 
 
Bruce describes the impact of DeafBlind Ontario Services as a “new lifestyle” that brought relief and newfound peace of mind for him and June. Their journey was marked by adjustments and uncertainties, but during it all they witnessed Curtis’s incredible growth and independence. “Curtis is now thriving and making progress we never thought possible thanks to the support of his intervenors who help build his skills in independent living.” She laughs, “It’s nice to see him showing us the door when we visit!” 

Intervenors are professionally trained to act as the “eyes” and “ears” of the person who is deafblind through the sense of touch. By facilitating the exchange of information and assisting with communication methods, intervenors empower people who are deafblind to thrive. For people like Curtis who are deafblind, the impact of the intervenor is immeasurable. 
 
Moved by deep gratitude and a desire to help, June and Bruce chose to become donors. Their philanthropy was driven by a deep-seated belief in the power of generosity to transform lives.  Recognizing the importance of extending support to other families facing similar challenges, they want to ensure others have access to the same level of care and assistance, while emphasizing the importance of raising awareness of people who are deafblind.  
 
“If you want to feel the true meaning of being philanthropic, then make a donation to DeafBlind Ontario Foundation. Your gift will have a lasting effect. It’s important to give to allow people the opportunity to experience a fuller, more complete life”, says Bruce.