Foundation begun in officer's honour
By Bonnie Gropp
From time to time there comes a person whose commitment and dedication to the betterment of their community and the lives of those around them can’t be forgotten.
Such is the case of OPP officer and volunteer Blyth firefighter Dave Mounsey, who passed away from injuries sustained in an on-duty car crash in the fall of 2006. To honour his memory and to give back to the community that meant so much to him, friends and family have created the Dave Mounsey Memorial Foundation (DMMF).
Following his recovery from another serious crash while working, October 2004, Mounsey made the decision to join the fire department that had rushed to the scene and assisted him.
Just before his fatal crash, he and his life partner OPP Const. Brenda Carey participated in the Victoria B.C. marathon to raise funds for a defibrillator for the department.
Const. Patrick Armstrong, who was Mounsey’s probationary officer when he first joined the force, and became friends with his mentor over the course of that association, wanted to see Mounsey’s good works continued.
“I was on the scene at both of Dave’s crashes. Those close to him were obviously very upset when Dave passed away. We came up with this idea as a way of continuing the work he started. To give back as he had.”
The DMMF will promote the “dedication to community that was exemplified by Const. Mounsey in his work and in his life”. With the passing of law enforcement, fire, paramedic and military members who pay the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities, the Foundation will donate a defibrilla-tor according to the family’s wishes.
The life-saving equipment is “Patrick-proof”, said Armstrong. “If I can use them anyone can.” He explains that the defibrillators won’t allow someone to be shocked if they still have a pulse. “There is a voice that talks you through. They are very sensitive and if they detect anything it won’t let you shock.”
As a Foundation, funds will primarily be raised through membership fees. The cost is $20. Armstrong said nothing is really required of members, but they will receive invitations to the annual meetings, a newsletter and be updated on the Foundation’s activities.
DMMF’s first executive board meeting was held Aug. 12. Armstrong is executive director and president. The executive is: president Celeste Bailey, vice-president Blyth fire chief Paul Josling, treasurer Susan Ethlston and secretary Andrea Matheson.
DMMF will be at the Sept. 7 OPP London Community Centre family day to promote the Foundation and take memberships. On Oct. 3 DMMF is holding a motorcycle ride from London to the Blyth arena, rain or shine. Cost is $20, plus $5 for passengers.
The first defibrillator, which costs $1,500 to $1,800 will be presented at Blyth Oct. 6, said Armstrong.
Armstrong said with defibrillators now in place in all arenas, the Foundation would like to see them in every public place. “They are that beneficial. If one saves a life, and we had something to do with it, well I would like to have my friend back, but if we can continue on with his work that will at least mean something.”
For more information visit www.davemounsey.com