For Clarence, for literacy

Clarence Brazier of Sprucedale, Ontario (just up the road from me) was 93 years old when he decided enough was enough. He would learn how to read.

By age 95, with help from the Muskoka Literacy Council, Mr. Brazier achieved his goal. 

He was 100 when he received the prestigious Canada Post National Literacy Award from the Governor General of Canada.

He died this spring, in his 106th amazing year, but his determination to overcome the seemingly insurmountable remains an inspiration to so many others. After all, if a 93-year-old deaf man can learn to read and write, well then anyone can, right? And if someone can do that, anything is possible.

The good work of the Muskoka Literacy Council continues through the adult literacy programs of the Simcoe-Muskoka YMCA and one of the main fundraising events for this important program is the annual Muskoka Novel Marathon. Once again this year, 30 writers will enclose themselves in one room (Club 55 in downtown Huntsville) for a long weekend of novel writing. To take part in this marathon of words, they must raise money for YMCA Literacy Services. 

It's not just for another program. It's for people like Clarence.

I'm participating this year and I'm trying my utmost to raise money for this important cause. Anything you can contribute is greatly appreciated. $5? Awesome. $10? Even more awesome. $25? Well that's just a big jar of Awesome Sauce! It doesn't have to be a king's ransom. 

Those who donate will be highly regarded by me forever, as well as being mentioned on my blog (ooh boy!). As well, contributors could win one of three Life on the Muskoka River mugs. 

If you could mention my efforts on your own blog, I will also throw your name into the hat for a mug. Just mention in the comments that you have and I'll be sure to include you in the draw. 

Thank you dear friends. And thank you, Clarence, for being such an inspiration.

To donate, click here.