Fundraiser for Patricia Attracts Big Names

On February 24, Bourbon Street West is throwing open its doors once again for a fundraiser and this time the proceeds from ticket sales are going towards a cause that has touched a chord in many people’s lives.

Patricia Jolicoeur is a 27 year-old woman who was struck by a car while she was walking her dog on a residential street in St Lazare. The accident happened over a year ago and she has been left in a semi-vegetative state with little hope of recovery.

Patricia’s tragic story has spawned a major public call for stiffer sentences for reckless and dangerous drivers. It has brought to light the difficulties – both financial and emotional – accident victims and their families face.

The SAAQ coverage of her 24 hour-a-day care will run out in just under a year, leaving the Jolicoeurs with the prospect of paying $3000 a month for her continued stay in a West Island chronic care facility.

Sol Boxenbaum, CJAD radio host of “Last Call with Sol”, organized the fundraiser, after learning of Patricia's plight from her father Claude, who has been a guest on his talk show four times. Boxenbaum said the money raised at Bourbon Street will be put into a trust fund for Patricia. The money in the fund will help defray the costs of her lifetime care.

“We have made arrangement to provide the Jolicoeurs with a lifetime supply of diapers, toiletries and towels,” said Boxenbaum. These are items that the government does not pay for.

“The show is going to be great,” he said. “There’s a big demand for the 500 tickets.”

The lineup of artists includes blues guitarist Jimmy James, Kenny Dupree, Geraldine Hunt, rock band Runaway Slide, Cliff Stevens, jazz performer Richard Carr, Alicia, April and Edward Ellington - members of Duke Ellington's family - with other performers yet to confirm their participation in the show.

But what may be the biggest names are Brian Greenaway of April Wine and legendary Offenbach member Breen Leboeuf. Impresario John “Guitar Johnny” Granata is working on snagging the other members of April Wine. Reason alone to sell out the house.

Sunday February 24, 7 p.m. Call 514 695-6545 or 514 561-0232 for more information or to reserve tickets. Tickets will also be sold at the door.