P.E.I. mother touched by community support for her ill son

Bobbi-Jo Griffin of Charlottetown is able to find a silver lining in a troubling time.

The single mother’s older of two boys – 15-year-year-old Christopher Chisholm – has long battled serious illness.

At five, Christopher had complications from appendix surgery, which led to a large bowel being dormant.

At seven, he was diagnosed with kidney disease and would end up spending six weeks at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax.

Christopher has been hospitalized about 15 other times in the past eight years. He has also had three significant surgeries in addition to other lesser ones.

Each and every day, he takes three different medications – and will do so the rest of his life.

Griffin says Christopher had been enjoying “extremely good health’’ over the past two years, which included a Disney trip with his mother and brother in March 2019 courtesy of Children’s Wish. He was even strong enough to compete in a wrestling tournament in February.

However, he fell ill in his first match and was rushed to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

He stayed at the QEH for five days before being transported to the IWK, where he underwent surgery aimed at removing scar tissue from his bowel.

Complications have since arisen, most notably a partial obstruction of the bowel.

He is at home in Charlottetown with his mother and his brother, Jacob. His health is highly compromised. He could face dire consequences if he contracted COVID-19.

“He is such a gentle, kind soul,’’ says Griffin.

“He doesn’t complain…he’s in good spirits. I am so grateful to be home right now with my two boys.’’

While Christopher is doing relatively well at the moment, Griffin knows emergency surgery will be needed at the IWK if and when his bowel is completely obstructed.

FUNDRAISER

Peter O’Dell of Stratford, along with the Pownal Bantam AA Red Devils, is spearheading a fundraiser to help Griffin with expenses. Visit O’Dell’s Facebook page to view and bid on auction items, such as a stick autographed by legendary goaltender Johnny Bower.

Griffin has been overwhelmed by the show of support by Islanders like O’Dell.

“You gain a lot of strength from that,’’ she says.

“This has been a tragedy in our family, but so many beautiful things have come out of it and so many beautiful people have been put in our path…just a huge thank you to everybody.’’