A Simple Act
What is the impact of the simple act of planting a tree?
Without over thinking the answer, it seems obvious that we make an environmental gift to all of humankind and nature herself when we plant a tree.
Here at the Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign, the gift is much greater as we celebrate and acknowledge the contributions made by our Canadian military since 1812 with special emphasis on those who lost their lives in war. That is, after all, how the Highway of Heroes received its name and special place in our society by an act of Provincial Parliament during the Afghan conflict.
When I look at this image of Nick Kerr planting a tree, dressed in his army fatigues, I am reminded of just how real our campaign is. Nick came to us, after searching us out online, to help him heal from his PTSD. “A tree for you buddy” he repeats to himself as he digs.
The “buddy” he is referring to is his best friend, James Arnal, whom he lost to an IED while on foot patrol in Afghanistan. Nick lost several other Canadian comrades while serving two tours of duty in Afghanistan.
Tree planting for Nick is therapy.
During my time working as a volunteer with the Highway of Heroes Tree Campaign I have been impacted in a dramatic way by our work.
We have benefitted from the help that many Canadian military personnel have provided during our public tree planting events.
And all of us connected to this campaign have been moved by their stories.
When I visit the Wall of Remembrance on our website, I am reminded of the many, countless, stories that Canadians can tell about their public service and their loss. It is all there for you to see and I recommend that you take a few minutes from time to time to scroll through it.
Giving Tuesday
Today is a special day for us. For every dollar donated to our campaign another dollar is provided by a private Canadian donor.
It is more than a good deal. It has the potential to transform a stretch of asphalt that is 170 kilometres long into a living, green corridor that is rich. Not rich as you would normally think of it, as in money rich, but rich in ways that are impossible to measure: environmentally, socially, and yes, economically rich.
There are many Nick’s out there who are impacted by your generosity. That is why I love this image of him, made up of many other images of brave and generous Canadians. Thanks to our military, we feel moved and secure by the very thought that they are there; to serve, as they have during COVID 19; to protect, as they always do during times of conflict; and to comfort, as they do each and every day.
Because of you, dear supporter, we are richer.
Please donate this week and double your impact.
Sincerely,
Mark Cullen
Chair, HoH TC
P.S. our military personnel enjoy hearing from Canadians any time, but especially during the Christmas period, as many are posted away from home. We encourage you to write to them and send you greetings and best wishes.