March 8, 2008 

Message from Cindy Haynes

Cindy Haynes of the PWC was in hospital after injuries suffered in a fire during the winter holiday season. Cindy provides an update on her recovery, and thanks those who supported her during this difficult year.

Sisters and Brothers,

I am so very lucky to be here today, to be alive, to have family and friends that have been so supportive. The caring brothers and sisters of this Union have shown great strength, love, prayers and financial support that I continue to be amazed at.

I have missed doing the work of the Chair of the PWC and representative for Region 1. Deb Tungatt filled the role of Chair for the Committee in a strong and diligent manner. The Committee came together and helped Kim Anderson, Region 1 PWC alternate, step in (she jumped in!!) and fill my shoes, as well as assist on the PWC. She has been a strong support throughout my hospital stay, and continues to be a help to me in so many ways.

I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends in OPSEU and on the PWC. Thanks for the phone calls and visits, flowers and sincere prayers. My Regional Executive Board Members Gino, Ron, and Laurie kept my spirits up, and continued to liaise with my daughters, my co-workers, my entire family, to bring a great sense of support, and assistance for any of my needs. Special thanks to the PWC women who kept me in their thoughts, who included me in this year's convention, and gifted me with the Bread and Roses Award...It meant so very much!

The donations that OPSEU brothers and sisters collected to assist my recovery is such a special act of kindness. Thank you, Smokey and Patty, for your support. I am so pleased to be recovering at home, after a five-month hospital stay, and am very anxious to begin work once again with the women of OPSEU's PWC committee, and in any way assist the members of Region 1. The show of strength, the caring members, and reaching out to a member in need has touched my heart, and my family and I are forever grateful! I'm glad to be back!

- Cindy Haynes