Scott Patterson is many things to many people, but at Wellspring he is widely known as the warm, attentive, compassionate centre manager at Wellspring’s Carma House.
“As a caregiver member, I so look forward to seeing Scott at Carma House. His welcoming smile is ever-present. Scott has provided me with emotional support when needed on those bad days. Casual conversations to brighten your days are frequent and appreciated. Scott even assisted me with maps on how to get to Cross Cancer Institute and Wellspring in Edmonton when we needed to travel to Edmonton from Calgary for oncology and nuclear medicine treatments,” said Eleanor Broski.
This year, Scott has boldly stepped forward to show just how deeply committed he is to supporting those living with cancer, by signing up to Challenge the Chief at Wellspring’s Firefighter Stairclimb Challenge on June 8th.
“I like the idea of this event and all that it does to raise awareness and funds for Wellspring. I was eager to be next in line when there was talk about passing the torch from Rebecca Perkins (Wellspring’s outreach manager), who did this challenge with great success and impact last year,” said Scott.
While Scott says he is motivated by the health and fitness benefits of participating in the grueling 57-floor stairclimb, his greatest inspiration comes from daily conversations with Wellspring members who are courageously seeking strategies and connection as they journey through cancer; and from the legacy of one brave little boy he will never forget.
“My personal inspiration was a real-life superhero called Max Schuster. Friends of mine and my wife lost Max to acute myeloid leukemia when he was just five years old. His story is a testament to how strong children are. I encourage people to take a few minutes to read and learn from Max’s story,” he said.
This January, with adjustments to his diet and a rigorous training plan in the works, raising the $5,000 minimum to take on Calgary Fire Chief, Steve Dongworth, is top of mind for Scott.
“I’m accountable now, and I’m super keen!” he said, adding, “I’m doing cardio five days a week. This week I’m meeting with the Deputy Fire Chief to get training tips and the gear I’ll be wearing at the stairclimb – overalls, boots (etc.) – stuff I need to train with. I’ll start doing the stairs at the Calgary Tower in March, and some other stairs around Calgary as well,” he said.
Indeed, in the coming months Scott will need to be at the top of his game, drawing on support from others as he builds the strength and stamina to join hundreds of firefighters who will climb the 1,370 steps to the top of Brookfield Place to raise funds for Wellspring in June.
“Please help Scott in his endeavours to raise funds for Wellspring, the charity and people who mean so much to him,” said Eleanor.
To support Scott in this epic challenge, visit Scott’s fundraising page.
SCOTT PATTERSON – Fun Facts
For those who know Wellspring Scott, here are some cool things you might not know about him…
- I was formally an acute care nurse at Lionsgate Hospital in North Vancouver.
- I used to work at EPCOT Centre – Walt Disney World Florida as a cultural representative of Canada.
- I lived and worked in gorgeous Edinburgh, Scotland for a year.
- I was the bell captain at the Fairmont Palliser Hotel right here in Calgary and won the White Hat Award – Exceptional Guest Service.
- I’ve been married to my beautiful wife Steph for 19 years and we have an amazing son Leo (13), and a wonderful dog Hazel.
- I am a trivia nerd and love to participate in pub trivia nights.
- I have a twin sister.
- I was born and raised in Woodstock, Ontario (Dairy Capital of Canada).
- My great-grandmother’s aunt is Canadian author, Lucy Maud Montgomery.
- I stand on the shoulders of many amazing female leaders who have come before me.
- I do not like peacocks … long story.
When you stop by to ask Scott why he doesn’t like peacocks, ask him how he feels about heights! And don’t forget to show your support by donating to this fundraiser that is very close to his great big heart.
Go Scott go!
