William Myles wants area residents to tie a blue ribbon around the old oak tree.
The Wyevale resident said participating in the Blue Ribbon Project is an easy way for people to show their support for the front-line workers who have been providing essential services during the current pandemic.
“I think it’s pretty interesting, kind of cool and easy to do,” said Myles, a father of three who works as a realtor in the area.
“I’ve been involved with the hospital in a lot of different ways and know a lot of front-line staff.”
Myles said it’s important to give back to those who are selflessly giving so much of themselves during these challenging times since the blue ribbon “symbolizes a special task force of extraordinary people doing extraordinary things in a time of need.”
According to Myles, the ribbon effort is a tangible way for area residents to thank medical professionals, fire services, delivery-service people, grocery-store workers, nursing-home employees, cleaning staff and others who can’t work from home during the pandemic.
While the movement has gained ground stateside, Myles said it’d be great if it caught on up here. And he noted it doesn’t necessarily have to be a ribbon, but anything blue such as a bow or rag that can be attached to a tree or mailbox.
“Let's come together as a community to show our essential workers how grateful we are for their service,” said Myles, who has high praise for the staff at Georgian Bay General Hospital, especially after being on the receiving end of their compassionate care six years when he arrived at the facility badly injured after being struck by a car while he was cycling home to Penetanguishene from his job in Midland.
“I got mangled up pretty badly. I really appreciate all they do."
