Midland resident Brian Williams was a big fan of the Midland Fire Department. Brian would occasionally stop by the fire hall and have a Diet Coke and a chat with the firefighters and was thrilled to hear about what was new with the department. Unfortunately, in 2019 Brian was diagnosed with a terminal illness.
"Brian Williams was a super-fan of all emergency services, and especially Midland Fire. When he was first diagnosed with a terminal illness in 2019, he and his CLH direct support staff made a bucket list of "experiences of a lifetime"," said Deb Duval, Senior Manager Adult Services with CLH Developmental Support Services. "Midland Fire Prevention Officer Ken Corriveau learned of this, and he and the entire Midland Fire team created a fire hall visit to remember for Brian. This meant the world to him! In appreciation for their kindness and for the vital work they do for the community, Brian left a bequest to Midland Fire."
Using that bequest from Brian, this week the Midland Fire Department unveiled the Brian Williams Safety Station, a new fire safety station that will be used on public education sessions for children and visitors of all ages for years to come, thanks to his donation and love of the fire department.
"Brian touched the hearts of the firefighters he met," said Midland Fire Chief Paul Ryan. "The donation and the new fire safety station named in his honour will continue an appreciation Brian had towards Midland Fire and will allow the fire department to continue to provide public education to the residents and visitors to the Town of Midland. We are grateful to Brian and CLH Developmental Support Services for this wonderful donation and example of community spirit."
"The entire CLH Developmental Support Services community is beyond thrilled that Brian is being honoured through the new Fire Safety Education Station," added Duval.
To watch a video of Brian's last visit with the Midland Fire Department please visit: https://youtu.be/EDOYBV6Xmmk