Randie Walter is back in Olalla, after a fire on June 9 ripped through the motorhome he was living in and hospitalized him with first, second and third degree burns to 60 per cent of his body.
A neighbour has generously provided Randie with a room, just down the street from his brother, Robbie Kilborn.
Randie is able to get around with the aid of a cane or walker, and continues to visit Penticton Regional Hospital every Tuesday and Friday to have bandages changed and have his wounds examined.
A donation campaign that has seen a number of businesses in the Lower Similkameen set up jars next to their cash registers has provided over $1,200 to help get Randie back on his feet again, reported Robbie, who has been managing the campaign. Robbie also set up a table in front of Save on More Foods in Penticton on July 7, where friend Wayne Stolz donated about 50 hours of his time as well as the proceeds from sales of hockey pictures, cards, pins and pucks to the cause, in addition to donations received.
“It’s turned out very well,” said Robbie of the fund raising campaign. “Randie has a good start on rebuilding his life thanks to the generosity of the community. My sister Koroly and myself would like to thank all the businesses and residents who helped us raise money for our disabled brother.
Randie and I made a trip to Penticton, for some new clothing.” Robbie has a couple of donation jars to collect yet, but said approximately $1,200 was raised.
Robbie also said work was ongoing to clean up and remove the debris left on his sister’s property as a result of the fire. Arrangements to have a metal recycler come to take away the vehicle shells, which will take place after the rest of the debris is sorted out and either recycled or taken to the dump.