The life of a teen viscously attacked and killed by three dogs in Nova Scotia will be honoured this Sunday.
A Celebration of Life for Drew Nickerson will be at the Shelburne Community Centre Auditorium at 2 p.m., with a burial to follow at a later date.
It follows an outpouring of support and love from the region to the family, who according to the obituary are dealing with “unimaginable sorrow and broken hearts”.
A GoFundMe has raised more than $130,000.
Drew’s mother, Dawn Nickerson, says in a post on social media that her heart is “overwhelmed” and she is forever grateful for the “compassion, support and financial burden” taken away.
It was January 3 when two Cane Corsos and a Rottweiler mauled Drew while he was riding his bicycle near his home in Shelburne County.
RCMP say one of the dogs’ owners was at the scene and drove the boy to hospital – later died at the IWK in Halifax.
All three dogs were euthanized.
The 13-year-old was a “kind, loving, ‘outdoor kid’ through and through,” says the obituary.
He enjoyed riding and ramping his bike, spending time at his cottage and skate park with his friends and ATV riding.
“The friendships he made had a huge impact on Drew,” according to the obituary. “He cherished each of these friends.”
The family sincerely thanks EHS staff, Shelburne fire Department, Roseway Hospital Staff, LifeFlight Crew and the staff at the IWK who they say showed such compassion in their time of need.
“Special mention to the surrounding communities who have gone over and above to support our families,” says the obituary.
Donations in his memory may be made to the IWK hospital or Our House Youth Wellness Centre, Shelburne. Condolences can be left at www.huskilson.net
