The blind Norgate senior struck down by a driver on Marine Drive last month wants his neighbours to know that he and his pup will be making the rounds on local streets again sooner rather than later.
On March 4, 91-year-old Bob Pearson was crossing Marine at Tatlow Avenue when the driver of a tow truck making a left turn hit and dragged him more than two metres.
Pearson’s leg was amputated and he’s been in Lions Gate Hospital ever since with almost no visits from his family, who are barred from entering during the COVID-19 pandemic.
But, despite a lot of pain, his spirits remain high and he is showing daily improvement, according to his daughters.
“He has a really positive outlook on everything in life and I think that that is what is helping him get stronger,” said Kim Bryan. “He believes he’s going to be home and he believes he’s going to be walking down the boulevard on his prosthetic leg.”
After what felt like a slow start with getting ICBC to cover the costs, Pearson’s home is on its way to having major renovations to accommodate his wheelchair and new mobility challenges. His family has their fingers crossed he can be out of the hospital by the end of April.
Pearson has spent his whole life in North Vancouver, raising his family as well as five foster children. He’s a fixture in the Norgate neighbourhood, often seen on his daily walks, which he does with the help of his white cane. He has a reputation for being selfless. At the time of the crash, he was on his way to the Hollyburn House in West Vancouver where he volunteers, singing for the residents.
While his daughters have been preparing for his release from hospital, neighbours have been showing their appreciation for Pearson, coming by to do the yard word work and pledging to bring him fresh food and meals while he adjusts.
“He’s very friendly. All the people in the neighbourhood know him,” said Bryan.
The RCMP continue to investigate the crash and no charges have yet been laid.
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