Jazz Concert to Support OVC
September 26, 2008 - News Release
A renowned jazz musician has organized a special event Oct. 3 in support of the intensive-care unit at the Ontario Veterinary College Teaching Hospital.
Peter Appleyard and his international quintet will take the stage at War Memorial Hall in "A Concert for Cleo," a benefit organized by Appleyard as a thank you for the care his dog received at OVC this summer.
Seven-year-old Cleo spent five weeks at the OVC Teaching Hospital after being infected with coonhound paralysis, a neurological disorder most commonly seen in dogs that are bitten or scratched by a raccoon. It causes paralysis due to inflammation around the nerves controlling the limbs, neck muscles and the muscles that control breathing and barking. While not usually fatal, paralysis can last several weeks, leading to considerable weight loss and muscle wasting.
Since being discharged from OVC, Cleo has undergone extensive physiotherapy and is now nearly back to her old self, her owner said.
"I must compliment the wonderful care they gave her at OVC,” said Appleyard, who praises the personal touch of one veterinarian in particular: Alexandra Bratton. “Every little improvement was like a day of sunshine for her."
The fundraising concert begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are $30 general, $20 for students. They are available at the University Bookstore and at the door. They can also be obtained by sending e-mail to cleoconcert@sympatico.ca or calling 519-826-0848.
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt, 519-824-4120, Ext. 53338/l.hunt@exec.uoguelph.ca, or Deirdre Healey, Ext. 56982/d.healey@exec.uoguelph.ca.
