The HTMSA is the student association for the University of Guelph’s School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Our aim is to give students a distinctive edge by providing the opportunities necessary for development within the industry. We go beyond the classroom to help our students associate with industry leaders of today and tomorrow. As well, beyond the classroom we are a family. We care for each other and are presently quite concerned about Drew Cumpson’s situation.

Drew is an amazing person. Extremely involved in campus life, Drew has wholeheartedly participated in numerous charity events including “Five Days for the Homeless”. It came as no surprise when Drew chose to postpone his summer co-op start date in order to volunteer with a University of Guelph program in Peru. However, it was a surprise when we learned that during this program, Drew fractured his C4 vertebra in a swimming accident.

We regret to inform you that Drew’s injuries are permanent and he is a quadriplegic. As he remains in serious condition at Kingston General Hospital, Drew will undergo multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation period. Though he is determined, this is a tough battle and an enormous financial burden. Consequently apart from prayers and good thoughts, as Drew’s HTMSA family we showed our support by organizing a fundraiser with an auction and live music.

“Keep Fighting Keep Smiling: A Fundraiser for Our Drew” was an absolute success! Surpassing our original $10000 goal by far, we’re at $28,805 and counting! The highlight of the evening was a Skype session with Drew. His smile sparked smiles on all faces, as usual. Thank you to everyone for the incredible support. If you’d like to contribute to the final total, please have your donations in by midnight of January 25, 2012.

As of January 25th, we are no longer accepting donations to the school for Drew.

If you are still looking to donate, please send us an email at htmsa@uoguelph.ca and we will forward you his mailing address.

Andrew Cumpson, 2WD
Room # 253
West Park Healthcare Centre
82 Buttonwood Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
M6M 2J5

Here are the bands that were at the fundraiser:
Sun and Moon
 Fitness Club Fiasco
 www.myspace.com/fitnessclubfiasco
Alright Alright 
www.myspace.com/alrightalrightband
Your Neck of the Woods
 www.myspace.com/yourneckofthewoodsmusic/

Thank you for your support!
Follow Drew’s progress with Heather Cumpson at https://www.facebook.com/groups/200495899992978/