Monday, June 23, 2008
I am saddened to hear of Ms. Fuykschot's passing. My experience with Ms. Fuykschot may have differed from others, although I'm not sure. While my early High School experiences centred around sciences and (less so) math, my middle and ending experiences in GSS centred around music (my own choosing and playing, I had little effort, skill or patience for notation and the requisite level of pomposity for my alleged artist abilities)and, acadmically,... History. From my perspective, Ms. Fuyk provided me with something others didn't. A challenge. She had the capacity to be abrasive, something I inadvertently also developed and now try hard to shake, but she had much much more....the way to channel a rebellious young teen into developing an interest. It worked. Much to my own amazement, I won several awards at GSS, including History for high marks. Perhaps tenacity and the desire to prove to her I could do it sealed my fate. Rather than run away from Gananoque, I enrolled in University (Trent - although it felt nice to turn Queens, Carleton and U of T down - admin error. They blew it and let me try for four due to a clerical error on their part) and completed my B.A. and then my Honours B.A. I majored in History, with minors in Political Sciences and Social Sciences. I decided not to teach, as I am convinced I would be awful at it. A good choice, in that youth didn't have to suffer from a teacher with a lack of patience. I went to Toronto, and worked my way up to be the Program Manager of a Secure Custody and Detention Centre in the outskirts.I met, and married by grace of God, my high school sweetheart, who dropped out of another High School History Teachers' class to avoid me. After we married, I was fortunate to return to Gan where, again by grace of God, I hope to remain and raise our two children. I am now the Executive Director of the Canadian Mental Health Association of Leeds Grenville, as well as the Mental Health Lead for Brockville General Hospital. I volunteer in my few spare moments at Gan Youth Services, and am happy to be able to contribute. Wow, too much about me. Here's my point; I was challenged and inspired by Ms. Fuykschot. I don't know how she did it, but she did. Magic? Maybe. Talent? Unquestionable. Pre-ordained? Not sure, but I hope so. I had no idea she had involvement with Drs Without Borders. Further evidence to me she can provide inspiration. Unfortunate that I was too slow to thank her face to face. Sometimes the modern world seems to lack inspiration. Collectively, we now as a Town and community have less. Ms. Fuykschot - I hope you are able to receive the thanks of those who are currently left behind. Continue your travels, spiritually, emotionally and other wise. Rejoin your friends and family who have started their ongoing journey prior to you. To your remaining family - I sincerely hope your hearts become less heavy. She inspired many, and helped many more who might not have been brave enough to let her know. She helped me a lot. Best wishes to you all. Colin Slack
