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The Loss of a Hidden Treasure
On Friday, September 5th, 2014, our City lost one of its hidden treasures- Lucy. The community response to the sudden and seemingly avoidable loss of such a kind and gentle soul has been both surprising, and heartwarming.
On Monday morning, the City of Barrie awoke to a spontaneous Street Memorial created under the TD bank on Collier Street, where Lucy last called ‘home’. The connecting sidewalks and alleyways were adorned in chalk hearts, messages of condolences; and, etched upon the narrow alley walls on what was affectionately known as ‘Lucys Lane’, were mantras of hope, love, and compassion- calling out for empathy and change.
At the young age of 45, the cause of death was deemed ‘natural causes’. And, there was little that could have prepared those who knew and loved Lucy for this tragic loss. Life on the streets is incredibly tough, even with access to community support services, and it takes its toll on even the healthiest of bodies and minds.