CCAMU TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARINGS ON URANIUM MINING-
DILLMAN TO END HUNGER STRIKE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, December 13, 2007
The Community Coalition Against Mining Uranium (CCAMU) announced today that they would hold public hearings throughout Eastern Ontario in the New Year on the environmental and health impacts of uranium mining.
“We have been asking the government to hold an inquiry into uranium mining and they have failed to respond” said Wolfe Erlichman of CCAMU. “In the absence of action, on behalf of the McGuinty government, we are going to hold a citizen’s inquiry and invite the Premier to attend. We will even go to his home town to accommodate him.”
A number of NGO’s including Greenpeace, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment, David Suzuki Foundation, Canadian Coalition for Nuclear Responsibility, Voice of Women and Sierra Club of Canada have endorsed the hearings or will participate as expert witnesses.
CCAMU will be calling for public and expert submissions to take place at hearings to be held in Kingston, Ottawa and Peterborough in February/March. In response to the hearings Donna Dillman, who has not eaten since October 8th 2007, said she will end her hunger strike.
“I began this hunger strike to shine a light on the problem of uranium mining in eastern Ontario with the hope that Premier McGuinty would call a moratorium on further mining and exploration” said Dillman. “We have not yet got a moratorium but these hearings are a great opportunity to inform and educate Ontarians about some of the detrimental effects of uranium mining and to keep the pressure on the McGuinty government.”
“Donna has made an incredible personal sacrifice in pushing for this moratorium. It is time for the environmental community to take some of the heavy lifting from Donna before she suffers any serious health impacts” said Gideon Foreman Executive Director of Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment.
“These hearing s will be an opportunity to further expose the unfolding economic, health and environmental disaster associated with the global nuclear agenda” said Bruce Cox Executive Director of Greenpeace Canada. “Mr. McGuinty is wrong when he says we need to mine uranium here to keep the lights on. This uranium is bound for export.”
Donna Dillman has not eaten since October 8th, 2007-a full 66 days ago. Ms. Dillman has been calling on Premier McGuinty to announce a moratorium on further mining and exploration in Eastern Ontario until a full public inquiry on the health and environmental impacts of uranium mining can take place.
On Tuesday of this week Ms. Dillman stopped drinking juices and had been surviving solely on water. She ate her first bite of food in front of the supporters who had gathered in MPP Peter Tabuns’ office, just after the press conference held in the Queen’s Park press gallery. Four other women, Adriana Mugnatto-Hamu, Rita Bijons, Sharon Howarth and Karen Buck, had joined Dillman on her hunger strike this past Tuesday, to show their solidarity. They broke their fast today, just after Dillman ate a small amount of mashed squash. It has been recommended by her health practitioners that she slowly resume a diet of solid food, given the length of time her stomach has been without it.

Day 68 plus

It struck me that people might be wondering where I have disappeared to. My private persona has taken over and I am back with my family. Well, not quite private yet, perhaps, as I've lots of email to respond to and, since starting to eat last Thursday, have 'appeared' live on radio in Vancouver, Perth, and U of T (two shows) and on radio eco-shock, which goes out to over a dozen college and university communities. As well, I'll be on CHUO, 89.1
FM (University of Ottawa) on Wed, at 5:20 p.m. and APTN is coming out in the morning to film. Stories and articles are still being written and life is full and busy.

I'm almost caught up on the paper work that fell behind in regard to the book tour and...well, we just won't talk about the housework. I'm slowly weaning my stomach back to food and it has not been as painful (wanting more, in variety and content, than I can comfortably have) as I would have thought. I'm not mashing everything any more, but am still eating soft foods, chewing extra well and using enzymes to help with digestion (and have only forgotten once, once being enough). Meat still feels a long way off. It's going pretty well, overall. I've arranged for some blood work, at the behest of the naturopath who examined me the day after I resumed eating.

People are asking whether the effort was a success from my perspective; whether it was worth it? Looking back, I'm pretty sure that McGuinty and company would have let me die before relenting on the issue, which concerns me in relation to the negotiations currently taking place with the Algonquin community.

I'm alive and enjoying time with family and friends after 68 days without food, and that, by definition, is a success. That such stellar organizations have signed on to participate in a Citizens' Inquiry is, by all counts, a success, as well. And more have expressed an interest. We will see over the coming months whether the 'powers that be' pay attention to what comes out of that. The major focus of the effort was to educate and that we did, with the help of literally thousands of supporters, all around the world. I met some phenomenal people, whose hearts are, and will remain, with us. It was worth every minute and every bite of food not eaten.

"What did I learn?" is another frequent question. I learned that when the Premier tells me he will get back to me, I should not hold my breath. As well, I learned that the reporters at Queen's Park are only after the stories they are paid to air/print/film. Not one of them stepped out of the mould to ask me why/what I was doing there, beyond the assigned stories of covering my arrival and departure. I mistakenly imagined that a few of them might actually be interested in a story that would take them beyond the pathetic entertainment and conflict that is the daily norm in the legislature. If I sound disappointed in them, and frustrated with them, it is because I am. I realize that they feel they have to toe the line in order to get the
pay cheque, but the day must come when, if we continue as we are, they realize that their family's health and well-being is on the line.

That the Legislature in its afternoon session is routinely an infantile circus surprised me more than it should have. (The only thing more depressing than watching them act like children, was to go out into the esteemed hallway afterwards and watch the scrum cover their antics.) These people are elected to serve and that is not what is happening. The up-side is that Legislature sat only 37 days in 2007, and so most of whatever work gets done must get done in committee, where, hopefully, they behave a little more respectfully toward each other.

In contrast, while most people still prefer denial, there are people from all around the world who care and care deeply, though I already knew that.

Added to that list are, at least, one MPP, (and his assistant and Mom). Four strangers, who were willing to attend the circus and support the cause by joining me in not eating. I salute them, though I'm not sure whether it was more painful for them to not eat or to watch the circus for three days running. :-) It really was sad, except for the moment when Peter Tabuns got thrown out for speaking his truth. That was tremendous and the five of us misbehaved, by clapping loudly to show our support. We were reprimanded by the Speaker, though unlike Peter, we were not removed. (When sitting in the public gallery it is not deemed acceptable to shout, clap, move about, write, or even talk - all of which is perfectly ok if you are an MPP in the Legislature - go figure! Were I facilitating such a meeting I'd be thoroughly embarrassed. Interestingly, on the day that the Speaker's mother was present, everyone behaved slightly better - I was amused.)

What was I thinking when I took my hunger strike to 'water only?'

That decision came from inside me and felt vital at the time. I was not about to quit just because the Legislative Session was ending, so, in my mind, I was upping the ante. In hindsight, who knows whether I'd be hounding the Premier at his constituency office today, still drinking juice only, had I not decided to take that particular action. I salute all of you for hanging with me, trusting me, even when things got tough. I am truly sorry for all of the distress I caused, throughout, especially with my announcement that I was taking it to 'water only' on the 66th day. Such decisions cannot be made by a committee but I did realize that I was effecting more than just me. I was willing to 'go there' because I deeply feel that we are indeed on a runaway train and I don't see our leaders stepping up to the plate to head off the impending disaster. We need to become leaders ourselves - today, because we don't have so many more tomorrows to play with. And having said that, please forgive me for any personal distress I've caused to any of you.

And this: How did I feel when I was advised of the coalition of organizations coming together to take this over? It was a mixed bag. Amazed that so many had pulled together over a very short period of time; thrilled to imagine the possibility of starting to eat and to restoring my health, which was very much at risk with the
move to 'water only' the day previous; relieved to be going home and advising those who were very concerned that the end had come, (and not the end they had worried about); excited to be anticipating a 'first' meal; and disappointed and saddened that McGuinty hadn't been reasonable (about the need for low grade uranium upriver of his family) after learning that we don't, in fact, need uranium in Ontario to meet his misguided nuclear agenda.
Blessings,
Donna

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Day 62

This day proved to be my most rocky, emotionally speaking, to date, as you can likely imagine. I'd decided late last night that the step that I hoped I would never have to take, had to happen and immediately. Knowing that the government was not going to act, had not acted, despite all the evidence we've made available, and that they were going into recess this week, we were (and I was) running out of time. Even with the minimal amount of nourishment that my drinks are providing, I would not likely make it to see the Legislature resume in February, so this has to end and I have to take it all the way to water only, if the Premier does not act by Tuesday at noon.

Like some others, Mike is not particularly happy about this turn of events and I feel guilt around taking the decision unilaterally. Desperate times, desperate measures, I guess. I'm hoping for forgiveness.

I was holding it together pretty well as I got my wheelchair (for the Climate Change march from Dundas Square to Queen's Park where I was scheduled first at the podium) into a cab and over to the rally. Bruce Cox, Executive Director, started off at Dundas Square by saying that we no longer had years to pull us back from the brink, but that we were down to months. I know this to be true. Other speakers spoke to other angles, but the messages all came back to the fact that it was up to us. The leaders are not leading in the direction that we need to go.

A fun moment was when one of the speakers, a dynamic young woman whose name I've forgotten, called Steven Harper's number, got his voice mail and yelled to the crowd, "What do we want?" and the crowd, numbering over 2,000, maybe closer to 3,000 yelled back, "Kyoto." She then shouted, "When do we want it?" And we responded, "NOW." It was fabulous.

I got very chilled and had to move into the heated security spot, so missed some of the other speeches. It's great how kind people are to 'starving grammas.' It was in there that someone who knows me, but only slightly, spoke to me about my plans and I broke down in tears telling her what was next for me. In the end, it was good that I got it out there, because I was then able to pull off my speech without completely losing it. As far as I could see, in regards to media, only CanWest was still there to hear it, but I've no doubt that the word will get out.

We then moved over to Hart House at the U of T where lots of folks continued to approach me with well wishes and where I gave the part of my speech that I had left out earlier. Dr. Suzuki was on video giving a brief talk, which I imagine went out around the world at rallies everywhere. The crowd was way too huge for the venue and it was great. You couldn't move in the room.

In an effort to conserve, I will likely not be blogging much but have committed to reporting in with Lynn, so that she can keep you all updated. Thank you so very much for everything you have done to move this forward and I'm betting that everyone has at least one more phone call/fax/email/letter in them in our effort to let the Premier know of our numbers and our concerns, so that he will meet with me with an announcement by Tuesday.

The fact that we are on the side of 'right' and that the science is behind us, doesn't matter at this point. He is not listening, bowing to big money interest instead. I asked him at our meeting if he had asked his 22 year old daughter, who has worked with World Vision, what her thoughts were on this, living downstream as she did. He had not. Maybe it is time!

I love you all and feel blessed to be serving in this way for this
cause.
Donna

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Day 61

I woke up early to my eyes stinging and sore and with some cramping in my feet.

The day started at about 6:30 a.m. in an attempt to catch up with email. One of those was a request for an update by the Vancouver Co-op Radio at 11:15 a.m., after which I will go to a naturopathic doctor for a much overdue checkup. I will then take my first trip on a subway and I'm hoping they don't throw me and my sign off, as my attempt will be to educate not harass. C.J., the photojournalist who took the pictures for NOW Magazine, will be photographing me. He plans to shadow me until this thing is over and to have a writer in London do the writing. Should be interesting.

The radio update went well. Charles is very up on the issue and very keen to get the word out. He'll have me back on Monday to let him know how all of this unfolds.

Off C.J. and I went to the Big Carrot where I stood around in front of the juice bar and had an amazing number of people willing to take the "Where's McGuinty", bright yellow flyer while C.J. snapped pictures. Lots different than the corner of College and University, I can tell you. Someone who was working at the juice bar came out and offered me a hot, freshly squeezed juice, which I gratefully accepted. The day was very cold, but I felt that my time was very well spent.

Next the naturopathic, Dr. Pat of "Inspired Life", saw me pro bono and gave me a good going over. My blood pressure was low, but in a good range for me. When he tested it laying then standing it went down though instead of up, which was not so good. As well, a very minor but noticeable irregular heart beat has developed. Organs are all in good shape though and he gave me some tea for mineral deficiencies that are causing a bit of dehydration, if I understood him right. Horsetail and cedar teas will be added to my regime. He suggested I come back next Friday to stay on top of the changes.

Then C.J. and I were off to ride the subway. This turned out to be quite interesting. Unlike that infamous corner where I continue to be ignored after most of two weeks in Toronto, people seemed to take note, looking at the sign and looking me in the eye. A woman seated next to me asked what it was about and took information with her. As did a young man who spoke to me and gave me a hug for what I was doing for his generation. There is, indeed, hope in the world. Another young man came up behind me and offered 'Gramma' money, thinking that I could not afford food, for 61 days now. An honest mistake given the sign, but he was really embarrassed. At that point, I wanted to give him a hug, but instead told him that I didn't want money, but would appreciate it if he would write a letter to McGuinty. He took the info.

We didn't want to push our luck in the subway so we didn't hang around too long, and once back to C.J.'s car, I was tempted to return to my spot outside the juice bar, but decided to take myself 'home' early to connect with Mike and the kids. I also sent off more emails to individuals who have emailed me since I have been here, to urge them to write and call over the next few days on behalf of the issue.

And I had those teas to try out.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 60

Wolfe and Marilyn arrived in the a.m. to try to connect with a few MPPs or their policy advisors before question period began.

While they were in those meetings, I wrote up my previous day's blog and a letter to the Premier, asking for a meeting on Monday. It is my intent to get the answer he promised me nine days ago.

Word has gotten back, through the grapevine, that he was "confused with my reference to 'Canada's' stock of uranium." This confuses me - as we all know that Ontario is not mining uranium at this point in time and has not for decades, so what else would I have been referring to besides Canada's exports? My statement was very clear. I said, "About 80% of Canada's uranium is exported, so why would we need more low grade uranium from upriver of Canada's Capital to keep the lights on in Ontario?" This is what he committed to responding to, sooner rather than later.

If I'm sounding a little frustrated it's likely because I am. The man knows that I am not eating, awaiting his response and he has the audacity to ignore a commitment that he made twice in the last two minutes of our discussion, with witnesses present. I trusted him and I'm feeling let down.

When he called to see how I was doing, I asked the MELT officer Bryon if I could put McGuinty under Citizen's arrest. He said that I couldn't. It made sense to me at first blush, since his inaction is putting my kids at risk. I think he must be guilty of some kind of threat to humanity.

The Ottawa Citizen is doing another story on what is happening in regard to some of the strategies around our protest and called me with some questions, having gotten the press release.

During question period, Peter introduced us again. There was a bit of a kerflufal (sp) with the seating, when a gentleman from Fredericton tried to reserve a couple of seats, which is not typically permitted in the Members Gallery. One of them was for George Shivalo (sp), the retired boxer. Turns out the Speaker lived next door to him when they were kids and George would come to the Speaker's house to watch TV, boxing matches in particular, with his (the Speaker's) grandfather. (Maybe you had to be there.)

Randy Hillier, our local Member stood to introduce a hundred or more Landowner Association members, who had bused in to see him at the Legislature and who had their Landowner T-Shirts on inside out. This because of the 'no sign' rule. They were given special permission by unanimous consent of the Legislature to take them off and put them on inside right. (Maybe you had to be there for that one too.)

The highlight of my day came a bit later, (I think you'll like this one)
when Randy asked a question of the Premier. Something about property rights. The Premier was prepared and stood up and said in a very impassioned voice, (I'm paraphrasing this first bit, but not by much,) "I depend on my government for hospitals. I depend on my government for schools for my children" and...wait for it - this next is an exact quote - "I depend on my government for clean air and water." Well, don't we all!

For the first time, I found myself feeling deeply sad, as I stood in the halls outside the gallery, during the break. All those reporters with cameras, crowding around people saying, for the most part, inconsequential things. What does it matter what we spend on hospitals, and whether they are public or private for that matter, when we continue to fill them up with people put at risk because of decisions that consider a single bottom line. Money. Not people and not the environment, even though the latter is being given more and more lip service lately. Maybe that sounds jaded, maybe that is how I'm feeling. I do know that there are other important issues and I'm glad that there are people concerned about them too.

We ended the 'work' part of the day at the printers where we ran off more copies of our press package; some for the Climate Change March on Saturday and the rest to give to any Members that we can interest next week. If you live in Toronto, please join us at noon, at the corner of Yonge and Dundas, (Dundas Square) where the speeches will begin. Following that, the march takes us to Queen's Park, (I've a volunteer to push me). I'll be leading off the next group of speakers that will include Peter Tabuns who follows me at the podium. The event continues at Hart House, at UofT, where an Eco-fair is scheduled.

While at the printers, we read the new issue of NOW, which had the interview with me. It is good as far as it goes, but it doesn't touch on the uranium issue at all, unfortunately.

Back at 'home,' I sent off some more press releases and notes to folks to ask them, urgently, to write/email/fax/call McGuinty early next week to let him know of our incredible numbers during the last days that the Legislature sits this year. And then I collapsed into bed.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 59

Having noted a typo in the Brantford Expositor story by Susan Gamble, I have written a correction. The story stated my weight loss at 15 lbs. when the correct loss to that point was about 25 lbs. (and is closer to 30 as I write this).

The day started early with preparations for our press conference at 11 a.m. Bruce Cox, Executive Director of Greenpeace, and his assistant Kim met with us in Peter's office and, once Dr. Edwards arrived, we worked out the strategy for the conference. Good, dedicated people these.

The conference itself went well and I found myself envying the other speakers who found no need to work form a prewritten speech. A reporter from 'The Agenda' took my contact info, tho their stories are worked out far in advance, so she would not likely have a spot till well into January.

Daniel Hayduk, our Loyalist College photo journalist student came for the conference and committed to sending a picture to Bruce for the Greenpeace website. Thanks Daniel.

In the afternoon, Wolfe and Marilyn went with Dr. Edwards to Hart House, U of T, where he gave a presentation to a small, but very enthusiastic group. Marilyn returned in time to accompany me to the gallery. Peter introduced us and asked, once again, when the Premier was going to call a moratorium. One of the young Pages walked our inch-thick petition, with about 3500 names, across the floor to McGuinty.

We caught up with the Minister of Northern Development and Mines, Michael Gravelle, and I passed him a press package, with the 85% export figure conveniently displayed on the top page. He brushed it off , but Marilyn was good enough to save him anyway, when we was half in (actually only the back of his foot was in) and half out of the elevator. She kindly pushed the button to open the door.

We met briefly with Honourable MPP Gerretson, Environment Minister, who also did not know that the uranium that could put his grandchildren at risk in Kingston is destined for export. Seems to be a theme around here. A major education is definitely in order. I can't help thinking that if these folks had half the facts we would not have to be trying so hard to change the direction of society without them on board.

I spent time writing a press release as Marilyn and Wolfe made some other connections throughout the day. Back at Julie's, Ryerson University Radio had me on for 10 minutes and I was up late sending out the press release after conferring with Lynn on the content. Photo Journalist, CJ was in touch and will 'shadow' me on Friday morning, as I move through my day.

My eyes remain tired and 'stingy,' the body seems to have gone out of my hair and bed feels good.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 58

Tuesday began very early, just after 5 a.m. Lots to do to get ready for the printer today. I was still at in when my CCAMU buddies arrived to help me edit a few last pages and decide on the order of the pages in the press packages. Then we were off to the printer, but not before we stopped at the Big Carrot hoping to pick up Mike's computer, which Little Stream Bakery was to have dropped off on their regular delivery. No luck then, but we tried again at the end of the day and I was able to scoop it up. He also tucked in a special little teddy bear to remind me of home. Very sweet.

The print job went smoothly and we departed with 40 press packages and neon yellow copies of our petition. We decided that it looked so impressive stacked that we would not roll the pages up as had been done the day of our Ottawa press conference.

Back inside the legislature, I relaxed while my companions met with Michael Gravelle's (Minister of Northern Development and Mines) policy people. We then met with Randy Hillier and his assistant, Charles, who gave us passes to allow us in the Gallery on Thursday when Randy speaks to the issue from a local planning perspective. It will be a big day for him, as over 120 Lanark Landowner Association folks are expected to arrive to see him at work.

I'm still hoping to get a once over by a naturopath, maybe on Friday. I'll keep you posted as to results. I know that I am feeling tired, but I did burn the candle at both ends yesterday and will be better behaved this evening.
Blessings,
Donna

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Day 57

Monday was a very long day. First came a meeting with Kim from Green Peace, as we are having Bruce Cox, Executor Director speak to the issues and we needed to work out a strategy. I will start things off with my heartfelt plea for our kids and theirs at the podium on Wednesday at noon in the Media Studio at Queen's Park. Dr. Gordon Edwards will follow, then
Bruce. Marilyn Crawford, Chair, Bedford Mining Watch, will end the speeches by detailing the reasons that I have not covered on why a moratorium. She will also give the reporters (and cameras) an idea of the kind of support we have. As well, she will hand the inch high petition
with about 3800 names over to Peter Tabuns, who will present it to Premier McGuinty later in the day when he makes a statement and asks a question of the Premier in regard to our demand for a moratorium.

Next was a meeting with NDP MP Gilles Bisson and his assisant Colin, who were very encouraging, to say the least. NOW report Jenny Eun and Photo Journailist J.C. sat with me for a good while through (other peoples') lunch hour for the story that will be in the paper this week. Jenny had great questions and I look forward to seeing the article on Thursday.

J.C. and I then took to the streets for a photo shoot; me with my "Bring Gramma Home" sign (and wheel chair). He will be shadowing me later in the week for a documentary he will pitch to the Globe and other papers. Should be fun!

On my return to the legislature, I was escorted to the member's gallery by Peter, where he introduced me and made a statement concerning our issue, which was printed in the last Uranium News.

No down time before my CCAMU cohorts arrived to drive me to Richmond Hill for a political fundraiser and nomination meeting. They enjoyed what looked like fabulous (and generous) servings of Chinese food. At the meeting, I had the honour of speaking at the same podium as Frank de Jong and others from the Green Party. We filled up yet another sheet of petitions to add to our growing pile. Please print a copy of the petition or draw one up by hand if you are at an event where people would support us, but also do have them keep the letters coming. Returning late, I drew up a Media Alert for Wednesday and my head hit the pillow well past midnight.

Day 56

Sunday was pretty uneventful and that was just great. I spent a lot of time writing, rewriting and trying to pare down my speech. So much to say, so little time. It was good, too, to have some time to spend talking with Julie and Alan.

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Day 55

This just may have been the very first day of this entire 'adventure' where I put my feet up and did very little except read and check email.

No battling to keep warm even.

I ventured out with Julie and Alan to get a good going over by my favourite Toronto Chiropractic. If you are ever in need here, look her up. She is Patricia McCord with offices just off the 401 and in the Beaches. (Editors note: Patricia is amazing!!)

The Christian Peacemakers called to check to see if I was at Queen's Park, as they were interested in connecting with me. In order to conserve energy, I'd decided that I'd only be there on days that the legislature was sitting, so hopefully, we can connect up during the week.

As well, the Brantford Expositor called and interviewed me in the afternoon. I found this amusing because I had just gotten off the phone with my sister and had prompted her to give them a call (which she had not done). I'd prompted her for a couple of reasons. She lives in Brantford (and I spent my teenage years there). My summer job in Grade 11 was in The Expositor's circulation department. Once out of school, I worked there until I left town at 21. Turns out they did have a little item in a couple of weeks ago, and are now working on a larger item. They are owned by Osprey, so maybe it will get spread around to some of their dozens of newspapers around the province.

Progress was made on my press conference statement too, but mostly I just laid around and ended the day watching Dr. Strangelove. :-)
Blessings
Donna

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Day 54

My MELT OPP has returned to Sharbot Lake and advised me today that the
Legislature cannot take my vitals, but that I could possibly check in at a clinic close by. My numbers remain good.

The legislature does not sit on Fridays, so, instead, I stayed at my computer for the morning (and most of the afternoon) preparing my speech for next Wed's press conference. It's taking time to reduce what I want to say to a length that won't put the media members to sleep. We've received press releases from Dr. Rosalie Bertell and Helen Caldicott that I want to quote. We've been warned to keep it to five minutes or so, however.

As well, I spoke to some media types in Ottawa and taped a comment on Perth Lake 88.1 who are doing a good job of keeping its listeners up to date. The young man that I spoke to today said everyone there was sympathetic to the cause. A meeting time was also set up with NOW magazine for Monday a.m. after my meeting with Gilles Bisson, NDP member.

I'm feeling very well taken care of, having been served carrot juice in bed this a.m. At midday I went to The Big Carrot where I picked up some kale juice and some nettle tea to help with lymph drainage. A Houston Radio station tracked me down while I was there and I found a quiet place from which to give them news of Sharbot Lake uranium exploration.

Big news today in the form of a letter received by CCAMU, from Dr. David Suzuki. It was a copy of his handwritten letter addressed to Premier McGuinty, in which Dr. Suzuki suggests that McGuinty should just say no to uranium exploration in Frontenac County. Yeaaaaah.

It feels good to think about putting my feet up over the weekend and it is time I did just that.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 53

I was up early again today to do an interview with St. John's, Newfoundland radio. It went well. They asked me what I suggested they do about the mining operation that wants to open there and I suggested they take to the street. Most of the rest of the morning was spent writing to media types.

As has been the case all the way along, my transportation back and forth to Queen's Park has been beautifully facilitated. A new supporter has stepped forward. She will drive me both ways most days and finance taxies if I need them. I'll use public transportation as long as I can manage the 10 plus minute walk. It is very reassuring to know that people are willing to put their time, energy and finances to aid this cause. Having the transportation in place is, of course, quite a relief and I continue to feel very blessed.

Donna and Frank de Jong at Queen's Park - photo by Shaun Merritt

The weather is not particularly cooperative in Toronto, in that it was incredibly windy and pretty cold today, out there with my Gramma sign and wheel chair. Fortunately I was gifted with passes to the public gallery for the throne speech and got in out of the cold. It took everything I had to be 'good' and not jump up when mention was made of safe, clean and sustainable communities, (thou not all in one sentence). I wanted to ask, demand to know, what part of uranium drilling and mining is any of those things. My mother taught me well however, and I maintained my silence.

Actually it was more that I am trusting that Premier McGuinty is having his people check out the info I left the other day and I'd prefer to be patient and not impolite. I expect he will be back to me (soon).

After the throne speech, I was introduced to George Smitherman (no relation to Neil Smitherman) who is the Health & Long-Term Care Minister. As he shook my hand and went to pass over me, I told him who I was and asked him if we could arrange a meeting. His response was quick and (felt) cold. "Absolutely not," were his exact words. He went on to tell me, (I thought angrily), that I should be taking care of myself and eating. When I responded to that, he pointedly shared that he had gotten married in Elliot Lake this summer.

He seemed surprised to hear that I had met with the Premier and did not react to my comment about 80% of our uranium being exported. With that our time together ended, not soon enough for him, it seemed to me.

It is so very clear that this exploration is not only not needed from a nuclear power perspective, but that even if it were, it is not in a suitable place to be even considering it, upriver of Ottawa as it is. And it bothers me that population numbers should matter. Every life is valuable, as we all know. That a million people will be put at risk, rather than a few hundred or thousand should not be the deciding factor, thou it is a card we are playing in our struggle to stop this one. The deciding factor should be that people will die and suffer for the sake of economic development and in a conscious society that should not be the case. Environment and community should not continue to play second fiddle to big money (or energy needs for that matter). Just how far out on the limb are we willing to leave our kids, anyway.

I'm sure you are all wondering how I am. I'm very tired, my stomach has been a bit upset these last two days and my feet were cramping today. I'd like to be home with my family. Over the last 53 days, I've had a granddaughter turn 9, a daughter turn 18, a son turn 28 and a grandson turn 4. Missing these celebrations is something that I have volunteered for, but that does not mean that I am liking it. And for certain, they are not. Mike has a birthday in just over a month. I'm hoping to be able to share it with him and to celebrate Christmas with all of them.

Thanks for continuing to write your letters and to educate friends and strangers. If you have not notified your community radio, (including college and university) of this issue, please let them know that I am willing and available for interviews. The CCAMU site is temporarily on hold in regard to new input with our fabulous webmaster on retreat, but the info for contact is there, as is the address of the Premier and his Ministers, under the “How you can help” button and then “Letter Writing”.
Blessings,
Donna

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Day 52

The day started at 6:15 a.m. with an interview on CBC Radio's Ontario Morning. I'm told that it broadcasts from Parry Sound to Pembroke and from Stratford to Cornwall, though not in the Big Smoke - great coverage area for us, if people are up and listening at such an hour :-). St. John's, NFLD, has been set up for tomorrow, though thankfully, not quite so early.

A follow-up to Vancouver Co-op Radio had been arranged for later in the morning, so Wolfe and I did not leave till noon for Queen's Park. Somewhere along one of these crazy busy streets, just outside the offices of 'NOW' magazine, the phone call came from an assistant of the Honourable, Michael Gravelle, the Minister of Northern Development and Mines requesting a meeting for 3:30 today, following the vote for the speaker.

We picketed around the U of T campus for the afternoon and returned to meet with Michael Gravelle, who was quick to tell me that he did not want to get my hopes up and that the government had no intention of calling a moratorium. That meeting was just getting started when, much to our astonishment, in walked Premier McGuinty. After swallowing hard (I'm a country girl remember, and thou you wouldn't likely know it today, a shy one at that), we shook hands all around, (Wolfe was there too) and I proceeded to tell him my concerns.

He commented that he too loved his kids as we all do, and that they were his first responsibility. Both expressed their concern with my health.

We didn't have a lot of time, but the Premier shared some of what his government has accomplished from an environmental perspective, then got down to the question at hand. He said that he would not be calling a moratorium because "he was committed to maintaining the present level of 14,000 megawatts of electricity generated by nuclear." I advised him that, according information from Dr. Gordon Edwards, 80% of Canada’s uranium is exported and the country has stockpiles estimated to last for 40 years at current levels of use. I then added that, with this in mind, and in light of the danger, there should be no need for continued exploration. Both McGuinty and Gravelle seemed unaware of those statistics and the Premier committed to researching the issue. I'm committed to refusing food until I hear back.

After all of that excitement, Wolfe drove me to my new home, (where I was greeted with a lovely big glass of freshly juiced carrot juice) and arranged for a friend to drive me back and forth in his absence. Thanks to Davey and Alice for hosting my first three days in TO and to Julie and Alan for similar support now.

Our MELT OPP Bryon is looking into having one of the hospitals take my blood pressure and pulse, since it has not been checked since last Wed. or Thurs. I woke up today with a sore tummy that got a little better as the day progressed and went away completely with the carrot juice.

One wonders what tomorrow will bring.
Blessings
Donna

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Day 51

After picking up our new Bring Gramma Home sign we were off The Princess Margaret to meet with others who shared our concern. Twenty-five or thirty people were on hand with signs and chants as we walked to the Legislature. Ex-Mayor John Sewell pushed me in a wheel chair while chatting with Peter Tabuns, the NDP Environment Critic. Lots of Green Party members in evidence, as well as a representative bringing greetings from the United Church of Canada, a couple from Big Trout Lake with blessings from the KI folks, and some personal acquaintances, including two of our very own CCAMU members and two of our MELT team. Some grandmothers joined us as did those most famous of grannies, singing a song or two for us. Another Native gentleman blessed our path with a feather that he had received through ceremony. Randy Hillier was on hand as we reached the steps of Queen's Park, but alas, the Premier did not grace us with his presence.

Premier McGuinty did, however, once again, plead to the reporters for me to stop endangering my health. As well, he told them that, "in an ideal world we could close down nuclear generation overnight." Interesting that he would fall back on his nuclear energy rhetoric when 80% of the uranium mined in Canada is exported and we currently have enough uranium stockpiled for 40 years at current use. Ah well, more work to do.

We got lots of our own press and lots of opportunity to follow. All of the major players were there and Peter Tabuns said that we did very well. That was good to hear because I did not really have anything to compare it to. The story was covered hourly throughout the day on TV and radio and a good story went out on the Canadian Press.

I did a radio interview with Perth Lake 88.1 today and, tomorrow will do Ontario Morning with Mike Ewing at 6:15 a.m. (ouch) and Co-op Radio in Vancouver, later in the a.m. Radio Eco-shock also wants an update.

Security advised me on arrival that I have access to the cafeteria and the washrooms as needed. Both Peter Tabuns and Randy Hillier met with me and will supply daily passes to the public gallery and, when appropriate, the member's gallery. When I am not inside, I will be on the front lawn or the sidewalk on University making my presence known. It's not like the side of the road at Robertsville though, where people are curious and (mostly) supportive. It's a hard sell to get most of these folks to pay attention, but no one said that this would be easy.

I'm feeling a bit of chest congestion and taking it easy (hence the wheelchair for yesterday's march). Once the cold symptoms are past, I will use the wheel chair to carry my drinks and my material for handing out, and to rest as needed.

Keep the letters coming. I was reading from Helen Caldicott's, "Nuclear Madness: What can be done" this a.m. that in June of 1977, 80,000 people took to the streets in the capitals of Australian cities to let the powers that be know that the only safe place for uranium was in the ground. Unfortunately this country has been back and forth on this issue since then, but it show that with enough numbers we can make in impact.

Blessings,
Donna

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Days 47 to 50

Friday, my last day on the side of the road, was full and exciting. Friends, old and new, and family began arriving early to express bestwishes for my time in Toronto. The phone hardly stopped ringing all morning.

Global TV was on hand, as was Jeff Green from the Frontenac News. Lake 88.1, out of Perth did an interview and I spoke with Wendy Vallillee atthe Lanark Era. I'd hoped for an opportunity to talk to some of the other local papers, by phone at least, but the Carleton Place Canadian, The Perth Courier and the Smith's Falls Record News did not return my calls.
This is particularly frustrating, considering most people in those towns are not very aware of the gravity of what is happening just up the road/river - where it is sure to affect them and their progeny. And considering that people from around the world are taking interest and these are my local newspapers. This is local news where I have been a resident for 25 years and am quite well-known. People in my bank in on Friday afternoon, for example, were astounded to learn of what I am up to and that they had not heard until day 47. If you, dear reader, can peak their interest with your calls/letters, I can be reached through www.camu.ca. The CCAMU site will have their contact info.

With all the goings-on, I didn't get away until early afternoon. My feelings about leaving the site are very mixed. The move feels right, and, at the same time, it is like leaving the womb in some ways. I'm a country girl at heart (and by birth) and I'm going on faith that a support system will be recreated in the Big Smoke. Though I won't be traveling with any of them two CCAMU members and two MELT members wilL meet me there. (Editor’s Note: She didn’t travel alone, nor did she drive!)

Saturday and Sunday found Mike and I in meetings where participants were very much enthused by my goal and worried about my health (and potential lack there-of). I could only reassure them that "I could feel it in my bones that we were on the right and winning path on this one."

Monday - Heaven is surely.....a hot steamy shower. I've no doubt of it!
Ahh, three days running, I've enjoyed mine. Likely something to do with living on the side of the road - sans heat and hydro - and feeling lucky to sponge bath on occasion, but the shower feels ssssooo extraordinarily good. After the learning curve and working out the quirks, my cell phone is functional and ringing off the hook.

My CCAMU buddy and I had lunch with a friend of his (an ex-mayor of TO) before heading off to the print shop today to design and print flyers and a "Bring Gramma Home" sign - maybe we can get a picture of it up for all to see - We also kept busy alerting various media contacts of our presence.

My wheel chair is ready to go and by the end of today I felt like it was going to be very handy to have along :-) Tomorrow is close and, as I head for bed, I'm feeling curious as to how it will unfold.

I've not had my blood pressure or pulse checked since mid week, so one of our immediate goals is to find a health care professional to check me out every few days. We are still looking for people to take on the jobs of publicist, campaign manager, and perhaps a storywriter during my time here. The legislature recesses mid December, so these are short term, volunteer positions, for which we'd be eternally grateful and which would help conserve some of my energy.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 45

Today was busy with press people, making me think more than ever that we need someone on the Toronto end of things to take care of this for us, sooner rather than later. Any takers?

Global will be out on Fri. a.m.; The Citizen, tomorrow and Lake 88.1 in Perth did an interview today. (Editors note: Lake 88.1 plans to stay in touch with Donna to report on her protest while she is in Toronto.) Support continues to grow.

My blood levels remain good and weight loss has hit 20 lbs. Energy is down, of course, but I am buoyed when I see what people are doing to help this cause.

Lots to do, in regards to packing up and thinking about what I need to get me through to the point where I can start getting my supplies from Toronto. It is possible that there may be a gap in my writing the blog, thou I will catch up as things settle in and there will likely be lots of news to report along the way.

Please keep the prayers and good thoughts coming.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 44

People are asking how I’m feeling about the pending ‘move.’ As is so often the case, feelings are mixed. Moving from where I am loved and supported on a grand scale, to somewhere where I am relatively unknown feels more than a little daunting at the best of times. On the other side, everything is pointing to my heading there to help keep up the momentum and everything seems to be falling in place to make that happen. A member of MELT will join me in Toronto for the early days to help in the transition.

Final clean up around the gate took place today. Some feelings of sadness came up as I watched the tent-trailer being dismantled. Electricity should be in by the time I leave. Unless I misunderstood, the outhouses are going to have heated seats! Talk about comfort on the side of the road and I’m trading this in for life on the front lawn of Toronto’s most famous park, and the sidewalk in front. ?

The group returned today for another Quaker meeting. If you have never experienced these meetings, they are an opportunity to sit quietly and to open to what wants to speak in you. As, and if, you feel guided to, you can speak aloud into the ‘circle.’ Some use the time to meditate, others to reflect. They plan to return on November 28th for a meeting and potluck, beginning at 5 p.m. All are welcome.

My days are busy, packing up, making plans for the move and connecting with media and other folks, as well as continuing to spend time with regulars and visitors.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 43

There is a possibility that I will be charged with contempt if ‘my’ tent-trailer remains where it is. Given that, I will be moving to the steps of Queen’s Park, and my departure from here will be on Friday, November 23rd at noon. I’d like it if some of you were able to come see me off, say goodbye and bless the next stage of my journey.

Some lost and found items and a request: We are in possession of a lovely pair of heavy grey gloves, a black wool hat and a pair of black snowmobile like gloves. These have been left here over the last couple of weeks and will live on the back wall of the office in the Dickey Moore Trailer until owners come forward. If you have left a tent, sleeping gear, chairs or cooler, please come by and pick them up as we are doing a clean up before the snow flies.

I was in grateful receipt of a Shiatsu Massage. It was body tingling good – Thanks so much.

This from Lloyd Hart, the fellow who went on a hunger strike in BC in 1987.

“I am going to do a support fast for you starting after the American Thanksgiving as I can not resist the organic turkey we have in our fridge. As of next Monday I will be fasting in support of your hunger strike. I will fast for ten days and will be meditating and praying for your move to Toronto and your work there. Just like you I, am grandparent and am terrified that we will leave a horrible mess for our children and our grand children to clean up. I cannot leave this mortal coil without at least making a serious good faith effort to stop the madness. Like you I am drawn to my faith in nature as the key to reach all of humanity with the message of our kinship with all living things. -Lloyd”

Were anyone else interested in following Lloyd’s lead please let us know, as we really appreciate the support. One of the CPTers who was here when I started went home to Texas and did the same thing for a few days. Another thought had been to do a hunger relay, where one person fasts one day and another, and so on, until we get our moratorium. Would someone be willing to organize that one (as Lynn is, shall we say, besieged with uranium issues at the moment)?

Plans are underway for my grand entrance at Queen’s Park, early next week. We are looking for a publicist and support team in the Big Smoke and a presence on Tuesday, late morning. More info will follow, as it becomes available. If you have contacts in Toronto, please give them the heads up and if they cannot join us on Tuesday, please invite them to visit with me in the vicinity of Queen’s Park at some point over the next weeks. And if you are connected with any MPs or media, please ask them to seek me out. And, of course, keep the letters flowing.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 42

A Quaker Meeting got the day off to a wonderful start. In case others would like to join their meeting, they have agreed to return on Tues, Nov 20th at 10 a.m. All are welcome to join us in the large trailer for an hour of quiet contemplation and sharing.

A good bit of time this week went to drafting up details in regard to various actions that have taken place/upcoming strategies/actions/social events, etc. This (mountain of) info was then written on flip chart papers and taped to the walls of the trailer for a visual, for those attending our regular Sunday meeting, of all that is being done to help stop the drill. One of the things I most love about these meetings is the networking and visiting that takes place before and after. For the first time yesterday, we did a go around and discovered that people were from Kingston right through to Ottawa and we had a supporter from N.S. in attendance, as well.

Radio Coop in Vancouver wants an update and have scheduled me to follow Dr. Gordon Edwards on their morning show on Wednesday. Please let your local radio stations know that interviews are doable now that we have the technology. They can check the media page on the www.ccamu.ca site for details on how to contact Lynn to make that happen, or they can call me directly at 613-279-1905, at least until Fri. morning.

I want to take time today to commend the courage of the folks who sit around our fire with great regularity. They might say that it is not courage, but, rather, determination, and it is that, and many other things, as well. The courage comes where they are willing to take a stand, giving up their comfortable lives (and we all lead comfortable lives) to protect the next seven generations. It takes courage to be selfless and these people exemplify that. The courage also comes where they are willing to be counted as going against the grain, risking losing friends and business alliances for a worthwhile cause. Then, of course, there is the inevitable personality conflicts that happen in any group of people who have been flung together. Witnessing the coming together despite some difficult differences has brought me to tears more than once during my time here. As I contemplate a move to the steps of the legislature in Toronto, the intimacy of the relationships that have been built will never be lost and I am humbled to have been a part of that here in Robertsville.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 41

Chief Doreen was on hand to facilitate a consciousness raising on the subject of racism. The meeting was well attended and the day was pleasant enough that we were able to sit around a very smoky fire. Heart wrenching stories were shared by those who had been on one side or the other of acts of racism. Courageous souls all; I honour the willingness to relive such painful memories. In the sharing, healing happens. As is usually the case, education comes once light is shone on the issue and education is the key to moving forward.

I'm still feeling enraged that Premier McGuinty dared to suggest that I not 'endanger my health,' when he is endangering the health of my kids and grandkids by his inaction. Their risk of a variety of cancers, debilitating illnesses, birth defects, and so much more, goes way up if this exploration and mine is allowed to go forward. Thanks so very much for all the letters you are writing, and forgive me for repeating myself. Please keep them coming and ask your friends and family to help us.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 40

By now you will have read in the Uranium News about our most exciting day in Ottawa. First thanks to those who showed up to have your voices heard on this issue, underdressed to be standing around outside on such a bone-chilling day. Thanks also to the Christian Peacemaker Team for their organization of the event and to the Ottawa organizations that helped make it successful.

Perhaps I should feel grateful that a letter was couriered to me to my home (in the 11th hour - after I advised Mr. Fraser that I would be visiting the constituency office) but I am, in fact, disgusted and disappointed by the fact that we are ignored by the Premier until he 'gets' that the media will likely become involved. It should not take such antics for us to hear from our 'leaders' on such important issues. I believe that McGuinty owes it to us to be making a statement in light of the findings in Port Hope; that he owes it to us to be taking a stand in favour of the 'health' of our grandchildren and theirs. At this time in history, his inaction on the uranium issues - increasing risk now and for thousands of years to come - is unconscionable and inexcusable.

Even though I had said that the eleventh letter would be my last to the Premier, I thought it polite to answer his couriered letter, as I believe that letters deserve (meaningful) responses. You can read my full response printed elsewhere, but after thinking about it, were I to write it again, I would have added, in comment to the Premier's statement of "I understand that you are staging a hunger strike. Let me say that, while everyone has a right to freedom of expression, endangering your health is not the answer to solving this issue. It is my hope, therefore, that you will reconsider your decision in this regard."

If endangering my health is not the 'solution,' perhaps the solution is for us all to 'play dead' and allow the premier to endanger the health of our children, and theirs. Clearly we will not allow that. I've been blessed with excellent health and I fear that that will not be true for our children. If it takes "endangering my health" to resolve this issue, than I'm in.

As Lynn says, please keep the (preferably - but not necessarily) handwritten letters coming. Read's Bookstore is holding a public letter-writing event in Carleton Place; perhaps this is something that might work in your town. I can feel success in my bones. Let's do one more thing today to get us closer to the moratorium.

I thought we had found Mori's owner when I began reading a 'lost' ad in the Frontenac News, but, alas, the description did not fit. No white boots on this kitty. I've been asked to remove her from the site, as it has come up that some people are having allergic reactions to her and the trailer is a public space. While there were no lack of takers and I've become attached, I'm going to send her home with Mike. It feels to me like she is part of everything that is right in the world bringing love as she does.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 38

The Christian Peace Makers are busy in meetings, planning the most productive use of their time, including the day of public witnessing scheduled for Premier McGuinty's constituency office in Ottawa on Friday and a racism awareness workshop with Chief Doreen on Saturday. This makes for lots of activity at the site, mostly on the road allowance, but it is noted that Frontenac Venture is behind the gate from time to time and questions are being asked as to whether the injunction is being contravened when the governments have not yet been to the table with the Native representatives.

Please note that when you visit, I may not be out at the campfire. It is because I have moved inside the big Dickey Moore trailer where it is warm and cosy for visitors (and for moi) and you are most welcome to join me/us inside. At least while my energy still allows it, please don't think that you are disturbing me by coming by.

You will have noted that my blogs are becoming shorter. It is not so much that I don't still have things to say, but rather because I am attempting to conserve energy and am using what I have to connect around the world with people who can help us move this forward. In the time you save by not having so much to read, perhaps you'd consider another letter to the Premier ☺

Word came this week that we will, indeed, soon have hydro. Although I'll be advocating that we still burn candles for evening light, I am grateful that we will have electricity for boosting my laptop. I'm expecting to be interviewed on CKCU radio tomorrow a.m. in advance of my trip to Ottawa on Friday and have my "Bring Gramma Home" sign ready to go. Hope to see a great many of you in Ottawa.

And this just in: An information toll, where we will be handing out info on both sides of the road will take place on November 24th, from 1 to 4 o'clock at the Mississippi Lake Bridge, Hwy 7, just west of the Ultramar at Innisville. Please bring placards and banners. Pamphlets and info will be provided. The purpose: "This is an information toll, where we insist on staying in the public' s view."

There will be a community meal afterwards at the Maberly Hall on Hwy 36, just off Hwy 7 at Maberly. Please plan to come and, if possible, bring a dessert to share.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 37

I find myself today, feeling profoundly disappointed in our provincial 'leadership.' After having handwritten to Premier McGuinty ten times in the last three weeks, I would have thought that some kind of acknowledgement was in order. With my energy diminishing, I have decided that the letter that I plan to hand deliver to his constituency office on Friday at 11 a.m. will be the last.

Please do keep yours going. It is only with the receipt of tens of thousands of letters that he will even begin to take this issue seriously. With the news out of Port Hope yesterday, and the public swelling of opinion, we can and will win the day, but the continued public outcry is crucial. I've been told over and over again that this kinds of thing usually takes years, if not decades, to get to the point where were are after only 4 months.

If you've written the Premier and his ministries, please consider writing again, and send another request to everyone in your address book.

If they didn't take up our cause last week, they might reconsider now. The fight is far from over and if it fails here, the blockade will resume.

If you can bring (or have delivered) a letter to the Ottawa South constituency office (at 1975 Kilborn) on Friday, please join that effort.

If we don't move our government to look at the direction we are moving, then who will, and when. We are out of time in regard to our grandchildren's legacy.

Happy Birthday Spartan!

Thanks
Donna

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DONNA'S BLOG DAY 33 TO 36

Though Mike and Elisha are holding it together admirably, I find it unsettling to return home briefly, as I did on Friday, to see all the work that is going undone and to know that I will be leaving again. Mike is having a hard time dealing with me out here on the side of the road.

The Green Party of Canada passed a resolution supporting what I am doing here and requesting that I end the hunger strike. I duly noted the resolution and expect that they will all draft one or more letters and mail them off soon, so that we move closer to ending this.

It was good to take the time for a short visit with my son, Spartan, who lives in Ottawa and will celebrate a birthday on Wed., coming. I expect he was relieved to see for himself that I was still standing.

With a productive and interesting weekend of meetings behind me, I'm now back on the site. Thanks to those who visited on the weekend and I do hope you will come back again and catch me here. I found myself feeling deprived (of food) last night; obviously, because it had been 35 days without food, but also because the food that was served through the weekend smelled and looked fabulous. My energy is low.

I learned this a.m. that the keynote speaker at the next workshop Mike is giving (in Alliston, ON, on Friday) is Justin Trudeau, and I'm disappointed to be missing his talk. From everything I have read about him, he gets that we cannot grow indefinitely on a finite planet, that the continuing drawdown of resources simply will not allow it, and that the time to act is now. My understanding is that he is also an environmentalist. If any of you have a contact for him, his support of this issue would be very much appreciated.

Blessings,
Donna

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Day 32 (11/09/07)

Frontenac Ventures and hunters notwithstanding, it's been a very quiet week here at the site. A notebook is now available to make notes on comings and goings. Feel free to add comments.

I'll be leaving for Ottawa on Friday at about noon and will return Sunday night, late, or Monday. Thanks to all the folks who are working to make sure that we have overnight company. The Christian Peacemaker Team will begin to arrive tomorrow and will remain until the 18th, so next week is covered.

A reminder on the planned sit-in/picket at the Premier's Ottawa office next Fri., the 16th. I'll be there, hopefully with a "Bring Gramma Home" sign, so please do say 'Hi.'

Candles seem to be in short supply with the possibility of electricity still a pipe dream at this point. Our campfire and picnic table have been moved off the driveway and we are in the process of cleaning up the campfire wood in that area in an effort to clean up the site for winter. Thanks to everyone who has pitched in and most especially to those who are here regularly, doing what needs to be done.

My sleeps continue to be restful, thou I'm finding that my bed looks inviting earlier and earlier most evenings. Blood pressure today was 110/66, pulse 60. I've sent a few more emails out appealing to foundations and media for help in our struggle. Thanks for whatever it is that you did today to further the cause.

Love
Donna

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Day 31 (11/08/07)

Happy 18th birthday Elisha. As you move into adulthood, may all your challenges be handled with grace and integrity. I love you and I'm proud of you.

Scott Reid, MP for this electoral district, arrived along with his assistant, Carol, having picked Mike up along the way. Standing around the campfire, Mr. Reid got a hint of what living on the side of the road is like with the bone-chilling cold upon us. With good humour, he accepted the down vest and scarf offered, but declined the toque. Those present seemed pleased to hear of his intent to advocate on our behalf with the province. He also committed to joining with the mayors' delegation that is being planned. They will head to Queens Park for a meeting with the Premier later this month. A further commitment was made to research what could be done to support the issue federally. Thanks Scott. We are grateful for your interest and support, and I personally appreciate your visit and your concern for my health.

photos by Oskar Graf

Having planned to visit the site for an interview, the Aboriginal People's Television Network (APTN) reporter was on hand to also hear Scott's message. Those with cable, can watch for that. With other news taking precedence, the Global interview has not aired. As far as I am aware, it is still scheduled for Sean Mallen's 5:30 p.m. National Show.

Dr. Gordon Edwards and Rob Del Tradici gave an excellent presentation to a full house at the Notre Dame Catholic High School in Carleton Place. We all came away more enlightened than when we went in. It was good to see some young people in attendance.
Dr. Edwards advises, "If you only ask one question of the Premier and his Ministers, grill them on what they are planning to do with the waste, much of which will be a burden for millennia." He also suggested that networking with organizations that have been through similar struggles is important to winning this one, and that contacting health organizations for their support would also serve us. If you can connect CCAMU with people who fit those descriptions, we'd appreciate it. APTN covered the presentation.

A head's up to Ottawa readers - ActCity Ottawa will feature a lecture/discussion on "mining rights- people's rights" On Wed. Nov 21st at 7 p.m. at the Hintonburg Community Centre, 1064 Wellington St. http://ato.smartcapital.ca/actcity Guest speakers are CCAMU's very own Marilyn Crawford, co-chair of Bedford Mining Alert and Mining Watch Canada and Joan Newman Kuyek, National Co-ordinator of Mining Watch Canada.

And to Carleton Place readers - contact Jessica Fraser at nouraniumdownstream@sympatico.ca if you'd like to help create a C.P. CAMU. Mori remains popular, with people supplying her with litter and food. It's easy to see that she is an indoor kitty, content as she is enjoying the comforts of the heated trailer (as I am). Thanks to St. Paul's University for the lovely hoodie (do they still call them that?) and to those who have delivered wood and taken the time to visit.

Blessings
Donna

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Day 30 (11/07/07)

With a full month behind me, the pressure is mounting to have me end my protest and go home to my family. I wish I could comply with those folks who have my well-being in mind and at heart. But, as Mike wrote to an associate today, this effort has had more attention in one month, than his 35 years of education on the bigger picture of why this sort of thing is permitted to happen. While that is a sad commentary, it speaks to the kind of action that gets attention. All to say that I am not quitting. No one knows what the next weeks will bring, how my health will hold up, but please know that I feel strongly that what I am doing is 'right' for right now. I had information today that the response to "The National" report has been huge. What people are commenting on is that they did not realize that uranium mining was taking place in areas outside of the north. This is great. People need to know this. Please keep the letters going to the Premier, the Prime Minister and the 'responsible' Ministers. As well, whatever encouragement is being given the media, keep it on. Keep on doing everything that you are doing because it is working.

I had the pleasure of being interviewed on Radio-ecoshock this a.m. The interview may run on Nov. 9th, as a teaser for a program scheduled for Nov 30th, which will also feature Jim Harding, author of "Uranium - Canada's Dirty Secret," and author of a great letter in Nov. 6th Uranium News. It will also go out to 13 community college and university radio stations and will be streamed on Youtube. Once the program has aired, a link will be provided for those with high speed.

More questions: Having said that I was taking in about 600 calories, am I a nutritionist?

I am not. I got that information from the label on a maple syrup bottle, (based on how many tablespoons I use). The juice is a guestimate. I'm assuming no calories in herbal teas, since I don't add sweetener. How can I have only lost 15 lbs. over a month-long period?

When first denied sufficient calories the body goes into starvation mode, where it holds on to weight temporarily. I suspect that this has happened and, while I've lost 15 lbs. (for an average of ½ lb. per day) to date, I cannot be sure that that 'schedule' will continue, but I do promise to keep you up-to-date. What do I say to people who may be wondering whether my hunger strike is 'legit' and that "I should be in the hospital after a month without food?"

There will always be naysayers, in this case, those who do not believe me truthful. I cannot change that. In regard to why I am not in the hospital, all I can say is that I am as surprised as anyone as to how well I am feeling. It may be that my strength is holding as well as it is because there is a higher power at work, or just that I have a strong constitution. I do know that our fight is a good fight, worth the struggle, sacrifice and conflict that inevitably results. In any case, keep the prayers coming. I'd be pleased to welcome any skeptics to my humble abode. They are welcome to come spend 24 hours, or 72 for that matter, to see for themselves whether my actions here stand up to scrutiny. What can we do for others in similar situations, but without the settler support that this effort is blessed to be making history with?

If you have the time and energy for one more letter, please consider supporting the efforts of the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug (KI) of Big Trout Lake, in their effort to hold off the presence of Platinex. There too, the Native population was not consulted before exploration began and, after spending 600,000 to 700,000 dollars, they have been forced to declare bankruptcy. For more info please see: www.kitchenuhmaykoosib.com and www.kitelecom.myknet.org

Tomorrow is my youngest daughter's 18th birthday. Happy Birthday Elisha. I will catch a visit with her (and a shower) before heading over to the Gordon Edwards talk in Carleton Place. Blessings
Donna

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Day 29

I had a fabulous sleep last night. It was a quiet morning and I took time to speculate at how surprised and pleased I am to be 'weathering' so well. I suspect others are feeling similar feelings. Going in, I imagined that by the end of a full month, I'd be in far rougher shape than I am, energy/strength-wise. Could it be that I continue to hold up so well because what I am doing here feels/is 'right' and, in conjunction with the efforts of others, the path remains clear.

Having internet service has definitely changed the look of my day. I only spent about four hours outside today, compared to the usual 14 or more. On the up side, the time was spent networking, mostly with radio stations across Ontario, and on an interview with Global TV. They will air tomorrow night at 5:30 on Shawn Mallin's show (I've likely spelled that incorrectly). A positive response has quickly come back from radio-ecoshock, where they have already planned to speak with Jim Harding, author of Uranium - Canada's Dirty Secret, and will add a bit on our struggle here.

I neglected to mention that we had an unusual guest at the site last night. Her (new) name is Mori (short for moratorium) and she is a feline, about 5 months old, mostly grey in colour, with very short hair. Incredibly thirsty and hungry, she was inclined to devour the single can of dog food that I found, but, to give her stomach a chance to stretch, we fed her in little bits. (That's how we'll be feeding me one of these days.) I'm not sure whether she is lost or has been dropped off. We've had a cat food donation and she is gradually getting her fill. Personality wise, she is a charmer. One of our MELT OPP officers has already fallen in love and I suspect that Kassia, Zephyr and Taegan will too when they visit on Wednesday. We'll wait to see if someone shows up to claim her before doing anything drastic. Meanwhile, she is a lovely mascot for the site.

Today's visitors included a couple of ladies who have been very active in Ottawa and in Carleton Place. One, a member of Ottawa CCAMU, has written a newsletter and distributed 200 copies, with more to come. I didn't realize it when she visited, but she's also responsible for the red 'no uranium' bumper stickers that you may have spotted. The other has sent numerous handwritten letters to the Premier, the Prime Minister and various ministries and has had her 'letter to the editor' published in several area newspapers. She's planning to invite friends, feed them (potluck?) and have a letter writing party at her home. This is an excellent idea for others to entertain and to spread around. Maybe we could do it from here at some point, now that we have a nice warm spot to work from. If you can join us at the 'sit-in/picket' at Premier McGuinty's office on Friday, Nov 16th, throughout the day, how about handwriting a letter to deliver in person.

Scott Reid's office called tonight and he will be out for a visit on Wednesday morning. Scott is the MP (Conservative) in this riding and I've a personal connection to him, through Mike.

Blessings
Donna (and Mori - she enjoys 'helping' me type by walking over top of the keyboard)

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Day 28

The last day of my first (I say that hoping there won't be a second) full month on site proved to be a lively one. First off, I was able to get on the net, al-be-it briefly. There are still some kinks, but it is looking very possible to get hooked up, via dial-up, to the world.

About 50 interested supporters showed up for the community meeting, which will continue every Sunday at 1 p.m. An agreement is in place and the monitoring team will begin work tomorrow. They will be doing a baseline survey to record where the exploration company is currently, so that they can come in two or three times a week and check the progress. No date has been set for the mediation with the province and the feds, but the mediator has been agreed upon. It is unclear whether the twelve-week period before drilling will begin starts tomorrow, or on the date of the first meeting.

I'm very pleased with Janice Kennedy's column in today's Ottawa Citizen. Not only is it well written, but it also very well researched. As to, "She gets under the skin of people put off by the implied arrogance of her action, by the suggestion that one ordinary person should make a difference," the way I see it, everything starts with one person, but never in isolation. For example, Ryan's Wells Foundation www.ryanswell.ca is a huge and growing organization that has built 319 wells in fourteen countries because one six-year-old saw a need. It's ever been thus. I'm a firm believer that changing the world happens one person at a time and somebody, ordinary or extraordinary, whatever that means, has to start. In fact, in this situation it was Frank and Gloria Morrison, local landowners who were not willing to sit by and let the status quo reign supreme. My action is one more cog in a wheel that they set in motion well over a year ago.

My schedule this week has me out at a meeting on Tuesday afternoon, Wednesday, from mid afternoon to late evening, and from Friday mid afternoon to late Sunday or into Monday (if I can get some press, or a meeting with the Premier in Ottawa). Please don't let that stop you from coming by and saying hi to those that continue to keep the vigil on the side of the road. If you are able to help financially, the "Bring Gramma Home" campaign would like to have some bumper stickers, buttons, etc. printed. Click on the appropriate link (Editor's note: How you can you help" tab) on the website for more info on donating to help make this happen.

New numbers to report: BP 109/66; Pulse 77; Weight loss 15 lbs. (I continue to feel blessed that I had an extra layer to work with there.) I'm still feeling very positive about achieving our goal and grateful for a good night's sleep.
Love
Donna

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Day 27

It never ceases to amaze me how quickly the days pass here on the side of the road. Between boiling water, squeezing lemons, greeting visitors, keeping warm, making and tending fires, giving interviews (phone and in person), the time just flies by.

Today we were videotaped and interviewed by two students doing a paper on conflict for a course at St. Paul’s University in Ottawa and by a writer from a bi-monthly publication in the Killaloe area.

One of our MELT (Major Events Liason Team) OPP Officers was kept busy mediating over whether hunters would be allowed inside the gate for their annual hunt. The issue is one of safety. I’m personally fine with it so long as the hunters remain aware that there are people on this side of the gate.

One of our overnight guests, joining us for his first visit, came from Kingston bearing gifts of flour, oat flakes, rice, sugar, propane and organic chocolate bars. It was debated as to whether the bars could be juiced but we decided that it likely wouldn’t fly ?

News came that the twelve-week negotiation period will begin on Monday and that more news would be forthcoming at the community meeting to be held early tomorrow afternoon. The campfire discussion this evening was stimulating, as is often the case.

If you have the annual Native Christmas gathering marked on your calendar, please change the date from Dec. 1st to the 2nd. The hall had already been booked for the former date, hence the change. Please do plan to attend; it should be quite a party.
Love
Donna

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Day 26

The sun rose over another quiet day on the roadside. We have been so blessed to have had so much sunshine during the (almost) month that I have been here. And speaking of blessed, I had the opportunity to soak in a hot bath before an evening meeting.

Thanks for the firewood, the down comforter, another pair of cozy hand knit socks and the juice that was delivered today, as well as to all of those who visit once or often. Thanks also to everyone who has responded to Mike’s emails, to those who are phoning and writing to us, to the government ministries and the Premier. I continue to be amazed and awed by the support this issue is receiving.

The interview on Perth radio (Lake 88.1) went very well and was aired on the noon news. If you would like your radio station to cover the story, please advise them that I am available for telephone interviews at 613-279-1905.
Love
Donna

Day 25

Another relatively quiet day on the home front, with a visitor from Hamilton taking the long distance prize. (The only prize is mention here, of course.) Mike came by and altered the phone set-up to insure that no calls are missed. He spent the night and left today (Fri.) to give a talk in Toronto tonight.

Getting a solar charge on my laptop looks like a possibility at this point, after which time I’ll see about getting a dial-up service so that I can be more ‘in touch.’ If that happens, it will certainly change how my days look.

Blood pressure was down slightly today to 97/74, with pulse at 68. Having felt tired earlier than usual, I’m grateful to have the warm trailer to put my feet up in as the ‘need’ arises. As much as I’ve learned to love the great outdoors over this time on the side of the road, it’s is also nice to have a cozy place to welcome visitors.

News came that radio station Lake 88.1 in Perth will air an interview at 12:05 p.m. on Fri. As well, someone from ‘As it Happens’ is looking to connect. There’s a nice picture with Zephyr on the front page of this week’s ‘Frontenac News.’ The story that accompanies the pic is well written. Many thanks to Jeff Green.

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Day 24 (11/01/07)

Settlers, the more the merrier, are invited to join the annual Christmas party put on by the Shabot Obaadjiwan at the Catholic Church (across from Timber Mart) on Hwy 38 at Sharbot Lake on December 1st at 1 o’clock. There well be a short presentation on the sacredness of the land, followed by a feast (bring a desert if you are so inclined, but not to worry if you cannot). If you are a man, please do bring a wrapped gift marked ‘man;’ if a girl age ten, mark your gift ‘girl - 10 years old.’ ‘Santa will be responsible for the distribution. This will be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the solidarity, the friendships and the extended community that has developed here over the months.

We, at the site are waiting patiently and with anticipation for the negotiations with the governments to begin.

Special thanks today for the pair of Alpaca socks received from a somewhat local lady. They are so cozy and soft I’m almost tempted to use them to warm my hands.

I’m including the rest of the “What you can do when times get trying?” list.
Whatever you are able to accomplish is one more step in the right direction toward bringing sanity to a society that is dangerously close to the edge in terms of resource drawdown, climate disaster, pollution and waste. While the train is traveling one way and some of us are out of our seats walking in the other direction, we must get the train stopped and turned around. Enough of us, working together, can do that. We are on a roll.

At the Community Level:

* Support and invest in local initiatives/enterprises; buy locally - i.e. a 100-mile diet supports local farmers and producers; when buying from a distance, support fair trade initiatives; start a community garden; The more we do such things, the more adequate local provision will be when transportation costs become unaffordable.

* Invest in conservation, renewable energy, and in sustainable infrastructure - soil fertility; forest management; community cohesion, (festivals, craft and information fairs, block parent programs, community radio, theatre, etc.)

* Participate in your local community or intentionally bring people together to form community.

* Make your opinions known: Write letters to the editor of your local paper; expand your personal communication comfort zone to let others know that you see perpetual economic expansion (and specifically, in this case, uranium exploration and mining) as a recipe for calamity. Letting people know that you question the current direction gives them permission to question it as well, thus building support.

*Support people and organizations that are leading the way; begin discussion groups in your home, church, school or community centre and invite speakers; donate your time, your energy and/or your money to the effort.

* Develop/participate in a community currency or trading system and encourage others to do so.

At the Government Level:

* Write, email or call your MP. (For MP's contact information, call 1 (800) 622-6232 )
Let him/her know that you support:

- The Well-Being Measurement Act www.SustainWellBeing.net/WBMA.html
The WBMA measures environmental and social factors in addition to economic ones,
i.e.: unpaid work; extracted resources, both renewable and non renewable; food quality; community stability; income distribution; education; pollution levels; quality of employment; amounts of exercise & stress; participation in decision making; levels of violence and more;

- The enactment of laws/subsidies that encourage sustainable activities and discourage non-sustainable activities;

- The formulation of a more equitable tax system, which draws revenue from pollution, natural resource use and speculation, while lowering or removing taxation from local businesses and low-income jobs;

- Full cost accounting; Extended producer responsibility; Proportional Representation;
Reigning in usury and, ultimately, adopting a monetary system that is not based on debt and the consequent need for perpetual growth.

Thank and Blessings,
Donna

photo by Oskar Graf

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Day 23 (10/31/07)

Into the 4th week here on the side of the road, more people are expressing their concern for my well-being. I’d like you all to know that I expect to come through this just fine, with our goal accomplished. Please be assured that, if I did not, I would quit the hunger strike today. The daily letters and calls you are making and the actions you are taking to reach and educate others are making themselves heard. As a society, when we make that kind of concerted effort we cannot NOT succeed. Our job is to keep on keeping on and I, too, intend to keep on calling attention to this issue by not eating.

Someone suggested to Mike that governments refuse to be ‘held ransom.’ I was surprised (yes, I’ve been accused of being naive at times) to hear that someone considered that this hunger strike was a form of blackmail. I don’t perceive it that way and I hope that others don’t and haven’t. My aim is to influence the populace to act, as is our democratic right. If I’m able to influence Premier McGuinty directly, so much the better, but it is more likely going to take thousands or tens of thousands of us to accomplish this. And we are doing that.

A hunger strike is no more blackmail, in my opinion, than is the Native Blockade or a road closure for a rally. I am protesting what I think is a moral, ethical and deadly irresponsible decision by the Ontario government. Given their commitment to consult with the Natives over mining on unceded territory, it was also out of integrity and possibly illegal as well.

Longest distance visitor today was Patsy George a long time activist from Vancouver. She was in the area to receive the Order of Canada. News came that the Council of Canadians passed a resolution at their annual general meeting in Kelowna, BC in support of a moratorium on uranium mining in Canada. I’ve yet to see it, but I’m told that Elizabeth May put out a press release about this issue recently, and Jeff Green from the Frontenac News was here for an interview today.

In the comfort of the room temperature Dickey Moore Trailer, I weighed in with a loss of 12 lbs. Does anyone have access to a small solar panel and a battery – something just large enough to boost the battery on a lap top computer? With that I’d be able to get dial- up and that would plug me in to media and press possibilities. It would also save the people who are running back and forth with the one gig memory stick some driving, not that any of them for even one minute is complaining. Every part we play is important. Thanks again for yours.

Blessings
Donna

Day 22 (10/30/07)

The old saying “It never rains, but it pours,” was certainly true here yesterday. Heating equipment arrived for the Boler, the HTHB got well on its way to being fully insulated and a wood stove was installed in the Dickey Moore Trailer. The new, fully insulated, to code, stove-pipe was donated by a local, very sympathetic business. (If corporations are people, I figure business could and should have feelings ? . Thanks to everyone for the parts he or she played in bringing us heated accommodations.

Janice Kennedy, from the Ottawa Citizen, paid a visit and will write about us in her column in Sunday’s edition. One of her many interesting inquiries was around what I say to people who think that I’m a ‘flaky.’ The question amused me, mostly because I assumed some might think me crazy, but flaky hadn’t entered my head.

On this, the first day of my 4th week on the side of the road, I am still feeling positive, still appreciative of the company and the incredible support and glad to have the amenities that are coming our way – specifically the land phone line and warm beds. My blood pressure remains good at 115/75 and my pulse strong (61). My upper arm muscles are weakened slightly and I have to watch to not stand up or turn too quickly. I haven’t weighed myself, sans clothes, yet, but now that there is a warm space I’ll be able to remove the numerous layers long enough to get an accurate reading, so stay posted.

With the government having named its new ministers, please keep the letters rolling out to them, handwritten if you have the time, and hopefully we’ll soon have our assurance that uranium will be left in the ground, undisturbed, where it belongs.
Blessings
Donna

photos by Brett Mackey

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Day 21 (10/29/07)

People often ask what they can bring when they come visit. At the top of the list would be a couple of armloads (or a trunk load) of dry seasoned hardwood. If they have a juicer, and are so inclined, I always appreciate whatever juices come my way. Interestingly, and without any coordinated effort, about a liter appears daily. No fuss, no waste.

I’ve been asked if I do broths, smoothies, protein drinks and the like. The answer is no. My intake consists of 4 plus litres of water daily in the maple syrup/lemon juice/cayenne pepper mix and in herbal teas. In an attempt to keep me internally warm, all my drinks are taken warm or hot.

I’ve also heard the comment, “But doesn’t a hunger strike, by its very nature, mean no nourishment what-so-ever?” Not this one. I believe ‘water only’ would not allow me to live to see a moratorium. From the beginning I’ve recognized that the process of securing a moratorium is something that will take some time. Consequently, I made the decision to go with what I am doing and to draw the line at smoothies, etc., which I consider food, as opposed to drink.

Some have wondered what I did before I became the hunger striking Gramma. I am, as you likely know, a mother, grandmother and wife and I live(d) a half hour’s drive from the site - on the outskirts of Lanark. My youngest daughter, who turns 18 on the 7th of November still lives at home. For much of the last decade I’ve practiced and taught Reiki and done personal and spiritual growth counseling. More recently and since his latest book has been published, Mike and I have spent the majority of our time planning itineraries and traveling the country educating what it takes to “Live on Earth as if we want to stay (which is the subtitle of his book).

In some ways what I am doing here is not a big leap from what I was doing every day. I still write letters to ‘the editor,’ network with people who can help us get the message out, and contact media regularly. The difference is that now, instead of being the support person while Mike is out front, I’m on the front line. As intimidating as that is, the issue far outweighs any hesitation on my part. Other differences include the lack of creature comforts we are all so accustomed to. Surprisingly, no part of me misses any of those (warmth aside), possibly because I recognize that if we don’t, as a society, wake up to the reality of how we are abusing the very planet that sustains us, we are all in for some difficult times, that will make what I am doing here look like a picnic outing.

Thanks again for all you are all doing. The letters to the premier are being noticed. Thanks to Lynn for editing my submissions. She tells me that she has noticed some decline my ability to write in the last week. (Editor's note: She needs a bit more editing than usual.) Today’s highlight was a surprise Moon Ceremony, led by White Bear Woman. Not being a Native myself, the experience was wonderful and powerful.
Blessings
Donna

photo by Brett Mackey

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Day 20

Lots of visits with friends, old and new today. We viewed a CD copy of The National’s report on a portable computer here at the site. It was good press. You can probably catch it on line if you have the capability. The Citizen’s Janice Kennedy is scheduled to arrive on Monday, so maybe we are on a roll, not that we should be letting up on the pressure at all. Mike and Lynn have been receiving email responses from across Canada.

I slipped home for what should have been a hot shower, but with our hot water tank is misbehaving, I had to settle for a very warm one ? I followed that with some catch up with family and email, before dressing in my gramma costume, complete with apron, scarf and granny glasses and heading out to the Halloween fundraising outside of Westport. It was great to see old friends and meet new ones. Some of the costumes were very creative and the music was fabulous. I had told Mike that we had to dress up and, taking me literally, he dawned a three-piece suit and went as a paradym salesman.

I’d like to have stayed to speak after the second set, but, needing to protect my energy, I bowed out and returned to the site at around midnight. A fun connection was that the couple throwing the party had bought some artwork of Elisha’s (my youngest daughter) at a youth poverty awareness event in Perth last winter and had one of the pieces displayed in their bathroom.

Thanks to the lady who returned four sheets of petitions all signed up. If there are others out there, please do get them back to us. Blanks can usually be picked up here or you can print them out online at www.ccamu.ca There are still a few ‘no uranium mine’ signs for anyone who wants one for their lawn/yard.

Driving through Perth last night it struck me that every storefront (and residence) should have a ‘Bring Gramma Home” sign in its window, front and center. Are there some students (we are all students) reading this who might print off that message, perhaps on coloured 81/2 X 11 paper, add the web address at the bottom and approach the businesses in Perth (and in every town across Canada and beyond) with the request that they help with this campaign? If they want to take some brochures send Lynn their names and address and they can be delivered or mailed. It wouldn’t have to be an organized campaign, tho it could be. If you decide to do this and the business refuses, please be polite, smile and thank them anyway. Not everyone shares our view of the issue (or any other).

I’m hearing directly and via friends and family that people are getting concerned more about me as I enter the fourth week (on Monday). Please use that energy to write yet another letter or take one more action to move us closer to a moratorium and please know that I appreciate that you are concerned and your prayers are most welcome.

Love
Donna

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Day 19

Mike headed home in the a.m. and Kassia arrived soon after. It was good to sit awhile with little Zephyr and visit with Kassia and others around the campfire. Because she'd been away, Kassia was surprised to hear Peter Mansbridge speaking my name as James turned on the TV after arriving home from N.S. last night. It was a good piece overall, and has been repeated since, according to reports.

On the question of what people can do in the bigger picture to insure a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren, I offer the following:

At the Personal Level

Learn to enjoy yourself

* The first, and most effective thing that anyone can do is to enjoy what life offers. Finding satisfaction within ourselves creates a foundation for a sustainable world. Turn off the TV; make friends; sing; dance; play music, sports and games; write letters, books, poetry, music; create; cook; sew; knit; paint; draw; sculpt; learn; love; laugh; talk with your kids, your neighbours, your friends; reach out to those less fortunate; pray; make love and appreciate nature. When one enjoys one's self, one is less likely to be influenced by the half trillion dollar annual advertising budget, which aims to convince us that we are inadequate and cannot be happy unless we buy the resource consuming products being sold.

Educate Yourself

* Read about the challenge and the goal by reading such books as: (ie.
Life, Money & Illusion; Living on Earth as if you want to stay (authored by
my husband, Mike Nickerson), The Growth Illusion, Small is Beautiful,
Operating Manual for Spaceship Earth, For the Common Good, The Long Emergency,
Manufacturing Consent.)
* View movies that speak to the issue (An Inconvenient Truth, The End of Suburbia, Who Killed the Electric Car & The High Cost of Low Cost, to name just a few.)
* Attend classes on sustainability in any of its many forms.
* Fast track your personal growth work so that you are ready to handle the emotional challenges that would come with a monetary crisis, health pandemic, climate chaos or extensions of the rich/poor divide.
* Search out meaning and purpose in your life; empower yourself by nurturing your innate greatness; integrate mind, body and spirit - learn to trust your intuition, listen to your body and keep fit.
* Distinguish between needs and wants and consider carefully which desires fulfilled today will undermine the well-being of y(our) children and grandchildren.
* Learn how to build sustainably; conserve; plant trees; grow organically; compost. Full cycle nutrient management is a key element for a sustainable future. Building up the soil in our home areas is essential to being able to feed ourselves, our families and our communities in a post fossil-fuel world.

Additional Actions

* Reduce your material consumption; Reuse and Recycle - waste less.
* Drive less and more slowly; if you must drive, purchase a smaller, more fuel-efficient car when your current car needs replacement; walk and cycle more; take public transit; live closer to your loved ones.
* Get out of debt.
* At election time, vote with your heart; vote for Proportional Representation; vote for a party that puts sustainability ahead of exponential growth.
*If you favour a Party, encourage them to recognize the necessity for choosing sustainability over continuous economic expansion.
*Get involved; run for political office or support someone's campaign.
* Prepare for an emergency by having food, water, candles, and other supplies on hand to last your family for at least one month. (Lots of info available on the net in this regard, ie. www.journeytoforever.org/sitemap.html)

Another day, I'll address what can be done at a community and governmental level.

I'd like all of you to know how much I appreciate that you are hanging in here with me. We can do this, with each of us doing what moves us each and every day.

Blessings
Donna

DAY 17

A quiet day found me feeling quite drained again. I finally took Harold’s advice and slept in the wood heated house that he built. What an incredible relief to not have to fight off the penetrating cold. It brings tears just writing that down.

I’d gotten my days and dates mixed up and Mike arrived, unexpectedly, in the night. It was great to see him, even in my groggy state. He’ll come back tomorrow with news of his trip and to spend the night..

A young reporter from the Ottawa citizen spent time with me yesterday and asked some in-depth questions, that hadn’t been asked previously. I’ll be stepping out mid afternoon on Saturday to get a shower before attending a fundraising event near Westport in the evening. Don’t forget about the fundraiser concert in Almonte on Sunday, 7 p.m. at the old town hall and let your friends in and around the area know that it is happening. It promises to be a rockin’ event. As well, Gordon Edwards will be at an info session in Carleton Place at Notre Dame Catholic High School Cafeteria , 7 p.m. on Wed, Nov. 7th. Please spread news of that one around too and maybe I’ll see you there, as I’ll be at that one.

Someone was asking about calories and I’d guess I take in maybe 600, through the maple syrup, plus whatever would be in the juices that folks bring. On the other side, people are not letting me do much besides walking about and taking care of my needs, so I’m not expanding much. At this point I have less padding than I did, but I’m not exactly wasting away yet.

I am hugely touched by the concern that has been shown and feel blessed to have the opportunity to get this message out with the support of so many.
Love
Donna

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Day 16

Lots of visitors, on an otherwise uneventful day. With the weather so cool and wet, it was good to be able to gather around the woodstove in the HTHB (house that Harold built).

A couple from Sharbot Lake stopped in for the first time and I was offered (and gratefully accepted) a mini Reiki treatment. I’d been feeling drained again today and it really picked me up. Thanks. Scales arrived today, so I’ll be able to give an accurate account of weight loss from here on.

As I write this I find myself curious as to what is being shown on News World and The National, so do please bring me reports and call or write to other programs/newspapers/magazines to encourage them to cover our story.

People are curious as to how it is for me not having eaten for 16 days. I continue to feel peaceful and grounded most of the time, and I’ve been a bit fatigued in the last three days, as you know. When I get up or turn too quickly, I feel lightheaded and that will worsen over time. As long as I sip my hot drinks pretty continuously, I’m not experiencing hunger pangs and I can keep my body temperature up. A mild headache will develop when I go too long without the maple syrup concoction that remains the mainstay.

People are also curious in regard to what I am thinking about during all of these hours at the roadside. I’m thinking that I thought that I’d have had lots of time to catch up on my reading. I’d packed a box of books for that purpose and have since sent most of them back home, as there, so far at least, has been very little desire to be reading. When the desire is present, it is too dark to struggle to see with my aging gramma eyes and hopelessly inadequate lighting. With so many visitors arriving throughout the days, I find myself much more interested in their stories and in catching them up on what is happening here. As well, I think a lot about how to reach the masses and what would help them understand that this is one of those issues that could result in turning the direction in which society is headed and that once our goal is changed, getting there will be easy. There are so many fronts that could be acted on. No precedents will have to be set. There are examples all over the world of various components of what needs doing. One day soon, I’ll write my list of what I believe those things to be.

Be well, please come visit to show your support, or do one other thing today to further our efforts.
Love
Donna

Day 15

After a quiet start to another t-shirt and shorts, beautiful day, (can this really be Oct 22?) we were pleased to greet a film crew from The National this a.m. After my interview, they spent time with Bob Lovelace before heading to Frank Morrison’s to film the staked claims on his property. It will likely have aired by the time you read this, as it is scheduled for Tues. at 9 and 11 p.m. on New World, and at 10 on The National. It feels very strange to me to be in the ‘limelight’ having been content to be the major support person, behind the scenes, for so many years. During the filming and throughout the day, the site was abuzz with folks milling about, meeting new people, talking about yesterday’s meeting, this a.m.’s filming and various strategies to insure a moratorium.

Long distance visitors included a family from England, a couple from Killaloe, who brought along firewood, warm clothing and other gifts; Green Party representatives from Renfrew County; and Eric Walton, who is the Federal Green Party Candidate from Kingston – and a personal friend. The Greens and NDP representative, Ross Sutherland, who has been at the site several times over the duration, continue to take an interest in what is happening here. Our new MPP, Randy Hillier would be most welcome, as would Liberal Party reps. Perhaps they need more letters and phone calls ? to encourage them.

I’ve not mentioned that Mike is off on book tour in Montreal. He and I have spent most of the last year and a half on the road with his latest book. Before my life took a turn and I ended up here, I had planned a Vipassana Retreat south of there. Mike was to spend the ten days doing discussions in the area. When my plans changed, he consolidated his and is away for just a week. At the same time, Kassia and her family, having been in a car accident (they are all fine) on their way to spend a day with me a week ago Saturday, decided to go to Nova Scotia, while her car is in the shop being repaired. They are visiting with her older sister, Terra Nova, in Halifax and helping celebrate Eliza’s 9th birthday. All to say that I’m missing family, so it’s really great to be seeing so many community members, from near and far, that I have come to love and admire over the years.

Again today, I was fatigued by midday. I actually considered a nap, but that time will come soon enough. I’ve a letter to get off to Premier McGuinty today, and, as well, one to our new MPP to advise him of what I am up to out here in Robertsville, just in case he has not heard.
Love
Donna

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Day 14

The OPP landed in first thing to do their surveillance. There was a bit of a stir when the landowner and a neighbour wanted to come onto the property and were denied access (by the OPP) while that was happening.

Around 70 people attended the open Native council meeting this afternoon to hear Ardoch’s lawyer explain where things sit currently. Lots of people stopped by during the day – it didn’t hurt that the weather was bright and beautiful. It is clear that support is strong and growing. The prize for longest distance traveled goes to a couple of gentlemen from N.B., while our highest profile guest was Frank DeJong, Leader of the Green Party of Ontario, and a personal friend, who stopped in to check up on me. Soon the trailer will be heated and the hut is already cozy and warm, so please come by for a few minutes, a day or several. Just bring your sleeping bag, pillow and toothbrush.

News came from CBC Morning Show that they were not going to come for an interview after-all because they had heard, erroneously, that the blockade was down. (Although they are showing good faith and continuing their move to this side of the gate, until the ‘I’s are dotted and the ‘T’s are crossed, the Natives continue to hold the gate.) I explained that to the young woman who called, but she was not convinced that there was still a story here. From my perspective, whether or not there is a blockade matters not to my purpose and presence here.

In the meantime, I know that we will win this by people power and with the power of the Internet. Whatever you are doing – whether it is writing Letters to the Editor; attending the site; getting a ‘Bring Gramma Home’ sign where people can see it; speaking to your MP’s or MPP’s and the Premier, sending emails far and wide, including this blog; copying the petition; speaking, or having someone speak to your group; getting together a coalition of grandparents (and honourary grandparents) in your town or city; making donations or holding a fundraiser, please keep doing it – something each and every day. If you have some other ideas please run with them and let us know so that we can share them.

CCAMU is looking for people to picket the Premier’s office and hand out info at city hall in Ottawa (and possibly Queens Park, too). If you are in Ottawa or Toronto, or can be, please let us know when you can spare a few hours.

Thanks to Philip Thompson for the fabulous sleeping bag - good to 25 below. With some hot rocks and a hot water bottle inside with me, the cold problem should be licked (and just in time too). Up till now, I had not been naming the people who have been supporting just in case they’d rather not have their name on the site, but I was assured that Philip would be ok with that. Thanks for the note too, Philip. It’s incredible how the needs of the camp are met sometimes even before we put out a request. Thanks everyone.

Today was the first day that I felt fatigued and my blood pressure was up, though still in the acceptable range. Weight loss is in the 10 lb. range. Mentally, I’m good and I’m feeling both disappointed - to think that what I am doing is not of interest - at least to one news program (expectations will get ya every time) and blessed to have the support that is here (and out there). I’m also grateful for the break in the weather.
Love
Donna

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Day 13

Today is my oldest granddaughter’s 9th birthday. Happy Birthday Eliza. I love you.

As the blockade draws to an end, I want to say again how very grateful I am to the two First Nations for the sacrifices they have made to get the uranium issue to the negotiation table. We non-natives could not have accomplished this without their help and, of course, ours was needed to ease their way in staying the course. And the pressure must continue as we move into the next stage.

Saturday was another adventurous day outside the gate. The sixty foot Dickey Moore trailer, so generously provided by a community member, was moved onto the road allowance with some very capable help, that just happened to be on hand for the job. It seems that that is the way things unfold here; people just show up. The location of my little home away from home was then adjusted to allow easy entry into the ‘house that Harold built.’

After the moves, everyone lent a hand in tidying up this side of the gate. When my oldest daughter had just turned two, I had her in the bathtub one day while I was scurrying around the bathroom cleaning up. She looked up at me and asked, quite innocently, “Whose coming Mommy.” Two years old and she’d already figured out that most of my cleaning got done in honour of guests. So whom, you might well be asking, are we tidying up for, besides ourselves. The National will be here on Monday morning for an interview with me. The National will be interviewing Frank Morrison as well.

There was further excitement during the day when we were advised by the OPP that they would be checking out the site (behind the gate) and joining us overnight, one car in front of the gate and one behind. I felt very well taken care of, though they were not actually here for me. One of the neighbours had ventured onto the property on his 4-wheeler just after the trailer had been removed and the OPP wanted to survey the site once the blockade was down (and prior to anyone else moving on), so they are watching it overnight and will be filming it tomorrow.

Special thanks today to the CCAMU web-site manager, for her time, skill and today’s visit; to all of you who are passing my blog along; to the owner of the Boler for his visit today and for taking the furnace away for repair or replacement; to the neighbour who spent a day trying to make it work; to all those who are helping reorganize the site and to all of my personal helpers who make sure that I am well stocked with what I need to be here in relative comfort. Despite a sting by a Yellow Jacket and the dip in the temperature last night, with all that support at hand, I remain very much dedicated to seeing this through. Tomorrow, as I begin the third week of the hunger strike, I will be sending Premier McGuinty an open letter in that regard and I will copy it here for all of you to see. Please feel free to forward it, and this, anywhere and everywhere.
Love
Donna

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DAY 12

With the report by the OPP of the potential for FV to arrive at the site at 10 a.m., and with the announcement that a press conference would take place here, we had an exciting morning with over 100 people on site by mid-morning. The mood was jubilant as people greeted each other and asked for updates. (To be part of the quick action list, send a note to Lynn.) The day started out overcast and the sky opened up just as the media were ready to start taping. Bob Lovelace, our Uranium News lady and moi; among others, were captured on film. I’m not sure if the story about the large number of non-natives that are involved in this protest has been told yet. Anyone want to write a few newspapers about this story or make a comment to CBC? Everyone should know about the large number of community members, native and non, who are involved in this protest.

It was good to sit in circle with the Ardoch First Nations and to hear the latest in regard to negotiations. As the blockade comes to an end, settlers and First Nations will continue with a presence outside the gate, 24/7. Please come add to our numbers – for a few minutes or a few days. For my part, I am grateful for the company (as I’m here almost 24/7) and the ongoing support that the hunger strike is receiving.

If you have not already done so, please print out the petition on CCAMU’s website and circulate it widely. Take it to your class, your club, your gym, your work, and to any gathering you attend. Help us educate the population. Filled-in petitions can be scanned and sent to the Uranium News, or mailed to the address at the bottom of the page.

Thanks to those responsible for the loan of a cell phone for this week, for the lemons, tea and hugs.
Love
Donna

Day 11

A hazy day, found me feeling peaceful and a bit spacey, when a CTV reporter out of Kingston showed up for an interview, which will be aired on French Radio and TV. Our OPP liaison advised us that the township building inspector would be by on Tues to inform us that our cozy hut, newly built, had to be removed. I’ll keep you posted as to how that unfolds.

A littler late in the day (Editor’s note: October 18th), the officer returned to report that they had been told that the blockade must be down and the site turned over to Frontenac Ventures by 10 a.m. tomorrow or FV will proceed with the contempt charges. This came as a surprise to the folks outside the gate as it was thought that the delay was on the part of the government and that everyone was patiently awaiting to hear that the agreement was finalized before closing down the blockade. Regardless and not hearing otherwise, some scurrying around resulted as signs were removed from the fence and the exterior of the entrance was cleared.

I second guessed my decision to meet with my youngest daughter, Elisha, for her ‘meet the teacher’ night, but decided to go anyway, since I hadn’t seen her for 11 days. She misses me, obviously, as does the rest of the family. While home I made contact with a CBC environment reporter who hopes to be out to the site for an interview.

The Boler furnace is out for repairs and will, hopefully, be working by the time the temperature dips again. I’m so grateful for this break in the weather and noticing how I take a roof over my head and a warm bed for granted so much of the time.

Day 10

Last night gave us a bit of a weather reprieve and between that, Mike’s presence beside me, a couple of heated rocks and my mohair socks, I experienced my first warm night since arriving here on Oct. 8th. The new day started out rainy, but soon turned to glorious sunshine. All kinds of activity is happening at the site this a.m. The hut accommodation is all but finished, thanks to a dedicated crew plus additional folks stopping by to help. People continue to stop to chat, cheer us on, deliver supplies and to check out the goings-ons.

As has been pointed out, “There is no I in team.” This “I” could not/would not be here on the side of a desolate rural road, trying to effect change without the support of so many; too many to list, and many whose names I’ll never know. While I am without phone or internet contact here, from the reports I am receiving the “Bring Gramma Home” campaign is gaining momentum. Thanks to all who are working to make that happen.

According to Nurse Sheila, I’m doing well; blood pressure is good (in the range of 113 over 76, for those who understand what that means) and pulse is steady at around 66. I remain positive about achieving the outcome we are all looking for.

If you have some expertise in propane furnace repairs, please reply to the Uranium News or contact Lynn at greenlynndaniluk@yahoo.ca, as that is the biggest need currently.

In solidarity and with love
Donna

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Day 9

I awakened thinking about division and about how it keeps us apart from enjoyment and apart from love. Rather, it keeps us in conflict - looking at the small picture.

So many things can divide us. All of the ‘isms’ divide us, big and small differences divide us and attitudes divide us. Where do these divisions come from? They are not found in children, so we must learn them. It’s my sense that fear of ‘the other;’ anyone who thinks/acts/lives differently then we do, is intentionally instilled in us to keep us divided. Divide and conquer as it were.

If I am correct, then who and why? As long as we are fighting each other, we don’t get involved in the things that will matter 7 generations from now, and those who control the monetary system (and the grand monopoly game) continue to prosper, knowingly or unknowingly, at the expense of the planet. While the planet will ultimately heal, it is not clear that civilization, at least as we know it, will.

60% of babies, from the time they can lift their heads off of the carpet, are looking at a television set. An annual advertising budget approaching the half trillion mark teaches us that we are not OK unless we have the best and latest gadget/clothing/toy, etc. Induced ‘want’ ultimately results in judgment of ourselves and of others.

Next time you find yourself judging another individual or group, stop, dig deep, and consider whether what you are thinking/feeling is a result of corporate propaganda or your innate truth. Answering the question for yourself could change your life.

In the situation we find ourselves in, I imagine that most people, if they think about it will get that disturbing the uranium found in the rock and the resulting radioactive waste is disastrous to the health and well-being of the planet and its inhabitants. If they can let go of the judgments around who loses and who gains, of who is standing up, of what each individual is doing or not doing and simply add their voice/actions/prayers in solidarity,– all judgments aside – at least for the duration - and preferably beyond – we will win this moratorium.

If people reading this were to ask their local newspaper to print the daily blog (or parts thereof) and the www.ccamu.ca website, the word would get out to more and more people in time to make the “Bring Gramma Home” campaign successful. In the meantime, thanks for passing it on to everyone you know.

The day broke bright and clear and work continued on the wooden hut that will bunk three. While the Boler arrived last night, (thanks guys) its furnace is not working; possibly something connected to the switch, as the stove works fine. Hopefully someone with skills in that area will appear so that warmth will soon be assured. My feet were warmed last night in some cozy socks donated by a loyal supporter. Thank you all.
Love
Donna

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LETTER FROM DONNA’S HUSBAND, MIKE NICKERSON

Greetings:

You may have heard the news that my wife, Donna Dillman, started a hunger strike outside the gate of the uranium mine proposed for up river from Ottawa. Donna stopped eating Thanksgiving morning, October 8, and aims to continue until there is a moratorium placed on uranium exploration and mining, at least for Eastern Ontario.

Needless to say I am concerned about the woman I love shrinking away in a camp on highway 509 without running water or electricity. This story, however, has much more to do with the grandchildren. Donna & I have four, two of which live 30 km. down wind from the proposed site. If drilling and mining were to go ahead, these young people would be subjected to the various radioactive dusts and gasses that inevitable drift up when steel and dynamite, crushers and sorters break up uranium bearing rock.

Bring Gramma Home!

Aged between one and a half and eight years, the grandchildren are oblivious of the problem their grandmother is boldly calling public attention to. They only want her to come home. You can help. Make a sign that says "Bring Gramma Home" and put it in your window, on your lawn, or wear it on your lapel. When anyone asks what's up. The conversation is started & you can tell them.

More Than a Family Concern.

While the personal story of grandchildren asking for their grandmother has popular appeal, the stakes of this issue are far more profound. The danger of radioactive contamination and other environmental degradation, is shared by more than a million people who live downwind and downstream from the site (Sharbot Lake to Ottawa). Hundreds of millions more face similar dangers from other such sites around the world.

Sooner or later we are going to have to pay respect to what the Earth and Sun offer on an ongoing basis. Nuclear energy is only tempting us to think that we can ignore this responsibility. Were we to shift our electricity demand to nuclear power, uranium reserves would be depleted in 30 to 40 years. Then, the grandchildren would find themselves saddled with the same problems we are trying to avoid today, except that the problems would be far worse. The resources available for working on solutions would be diminished and there would be quantities of radioactive waste, here, there and about, to haunt them for tens of thousands of years to come.

Both the Earth and the Sun are hugely abundant. Together they have enabled life to thrive for thousands of millions of years. Humans are fully capable of being successful here. By saying yes to living within the natural process of life on Earth, we can avoid freeing the genie of uranium from the rock in which it is trapped. Civilization is now at the height of its possibilities, if this generation cannot meet the challenge of sustainability, how do we expect the grandchildren to do so when it comes to be their turn?

As countless generations have cared to deliver a better world for those who followed, we are responsible to the grandchildren of today.

Help bring Gramma home. Forward this email to your associates and ask them to help bring Gramma home.

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DAY 8

Help us make history.

A special thanks to those who have already signed up for an overnight stay at the protest site. It is such an essential piece to having this campaign work. It won’t make a difference to my commitment, but being here alone on this side of the fence overnight, doesn’t have much appeal to me, so please add your name for a night or two by hitting reply or emailing greenlynndaniluk@yahoo.ca. Know that you will be helping to make history.

Yesterday, I was finally warm, partly due to the weather – a truly lovely day - and partly due to the winter cover-alls that Mike (my husband) dropped off. These were way more ‘becoming’ than my attire of the last few days, which made me look and feel like a pseudo sumo wrestler. Mike joked that every time he visited me that I had gotten 2 inches wider – not the usual effect of a hunger strike. I’ll add more layers on top of the overalls as the temperature drops.

Reports on yesterday’s concert were that the music was fabulous and that it was a great moral booster. Apparently Zephyr was very vocal in singing along with Frank (until she was relocated to the great outdoors by her Daddy).

Going into week #2, I’m looking forward to moving into a camper that can be heated. Thanks again to the folks who have donated the bowler/boller (sp?) for the duration and to those who’ve donated the tent camper. I’ve awakened well before dawn, cold, with a mild headache a couple of mornings and experienced some pain from my lower back down through both legs for three days now. Nothing to write home about, but for the record, I’ve committed to telling all of you how it actually is, here at the camp. Blood pressure and pulse remains steady.

Late this a.m., I was honoured to have four Raging Grannies and a Grannie-in-training (a student doing her thesis on the Grannies) for tea. Having traveled from Ottawa with a few songs that they’d written especially for the occasion, they performed for us at the camp. Some of us were pleased when we were invited to sing along. One of the Grannies worked with Mike about 30 years ago and had a connection with his Mom, Betty Nickerson.

The wood hut took shape today, thanks to the volunteers who took part. I’m looking forward to sitting inside with the woodstove crackling.

Thank you to those friends new and old who have gifted me with so much, including: teas; juices; maple syrup; cozy warm socks; hot rocks; a water bottle; tears; cheers and prayers. Also thanks to those who are taking time out of their lives, off site, to support the effort to make a difference in the lives of those not yet born.

My appreciation, too, to the members of the First Nations who make being here so much easier than it would otherwise have been; and for the biggie - holding off exploration and for getting us to the point of negotiations with the government.
As well, thanks to the local newspapers and Perth Radio, Lake 88.1 for doing their job and reporting the news. To my knowledge, none of the national media, with the exception of Global have aired the report. Perhaps this week - and with your input - they might rethink that.
Lastly, thanks to the OPP for their handling of this situation. They have indeed taken the high road and should be commended for their actions and, when appropriate, inactions. I commend them.

As we, hopefully, move into the negotiation stage this week, let us not forget that each of us has a worldview born out of our personal past and that no two are exactly alike. The legacy we wish to leave in our passing differs based on that worldview. While we are here, we can continue to educate and persuade. Please consider “Bring Gramma Home” window and lawn signs, bumper stickers, signatures on emails, buttons – use your imagination - and when people ask you what “Bring Gramma Home” is about, you will have an opportunity to both educate and persuade. Thank you.
Blessings and love
Donna

Day 7

When we were in Elliot Lake last month both our hostess and our tour guide/sponsor were contending with lung problems. I could not help wondering whether uranium mining had played a part. That area has a 24% higher rate of cancer (I’m not sure if that was than the rest of Ontario or Canada).

As well as increased cancer rates, including among miners themselves, there are so many other levels at which it just makes sense to say ‘no’ to uranium (and to, instead, bring Gramma home J). There’s the question of what the uranium is ultimately used for. Of course, at the top of that list is bombs. We do use it for medical purposes, but medical use is miniscule, when in the big picture, it causes more cancer than it cures. While Nuclear Power plants are toted as green energy, when the whole picture is looked at, it just ain’t so. Drilling holes to explore, or doing it from the air, takes fossil fuels; as does the extraction process; as does the trucking to get it to the plant. Building the plants uses huge amounts of fossil fuels. Energy is then needed to run the plants – when they are up and running - and it’s my understanding that, as a rule, they are down more than they are up. Indeed the energy that is the end result has lower emissions than coal and oil, but not of solar, wind, etc. And then comes the clincher. We still have the problem of storage to deal with. What happens after we enjoy the use of this nice clean energy (she said tongue in cheek), after a few get rich in the process and a few more enjoy some short-term benefit. Even if we overlook the reality that our kids are going to have to deal with the contamination, along with their kids and theirs, and, instead, we looked at future economic development in contaminated areas we will note that real estate prices are down, as is tourism. On the up-side, (again tongue in cheek) I heard yesterday that the municipality does not charge property taxes in Elliot Lake, since the land is of no value (or perhaps of negative value) and it is well known that accommodation is ‘dirt’ cheap.

I don’t write all of this for the good and aware people who subscribe to the Uranium News, so much as for the people who, I am hoping, receive it from you.

At the site: Word was that it was an extremely well attended info session in Almonte on Friday night. My grandkids were there with their beautiful momma and Mike. John Kittle gave another great presentation and reports are that the audience seemed to understand that uranium exploration and mining at the mouth of their water source was not such a good plan. If other such info sessions could be set up (this one was with a panel for and against) that would help to spread awareness. (Note from Lynn: We have since had an offer to set one up in Carlton Place sometime in the next month. Stay tuned for more info.)

Mike visited last night and stayed over to help keep me warm on the coldest night yet. As I write this, I can hear the sounds of the beginning stages of the building of a wood hut to get us out of the weather and people are talking about today’s concert in Sharbot Lake.

Question for today is:

What do you miss about being away from home?

Snuggling with my husband and helping him with his sustainability education work. I take comfort in thinking that what is happening here is an ’on the ground’ example of what needs to happen to wake people up; hot showers; the chitter-chatter of my teenage daughter Elisha, and hot showers.

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Day 6

Yesterday’s sun and news of progression in the talks made for a lighter energy around the campfire last night. This a.m. we await news of the meeting in Almonte and many are looking forward to the Victory Concert at Oso Hall in Sharbot Lake, Sunday at 2 p.m. (There is still need, so please come and enjoy. Only $10.00.) The concert will feature Terry Tufts, Frank Morrison, Neville Wells and other local talent. Since I will remain at the site, Terry and friends brought out their guitars and provided us with a preview yesterday afternoon. What fun to groove to such great tunes in the sunshine and open air.

Native Prophecy

Only after the last tree has been cut down;
Only after the last river has been poisoned;
Only after the last fish has been caught;
Only then will you find that money cannot be eaten.

Relationships, family and loved ones come ahead of worldly possessions and status for almost all of us. Why is it then, as a society, we measure only economic growth – GDP? The more puffers sold, the higher the GDP. More oil spills, more Katrinas, more war – the GDP goes ever higher and we consider that a good thing. Uranium exploration, extraction and mining is strictly about economic gain/growth. However, after some very short term benefit to a very few people, the community will be left, as was Elliot Lake, devastated.

Isn’t it time we spoke to the people who govern us to point out that community matters, health matters and that the air we breath and water we drink to survive matters. The community could be defined as the watershed. This particular watershed includes everything between here and Ottawa. Understanding this would/should result in a half million people taking to the streets in an appeal to Premier McGuinty to stop the insanity. If you are interested in bringing this issue to your club/group or in bringing together a grannies (and grampies) coalition, please let CCAMU know how they can help. In the meantime, don’t forget your “Bring Gramma Home” signs.

More Questions:

1) What is happening at the site?

Court negotiations, in preparation to come to the table with the government, are moving in the right direction, painfully slowly. Preparations are underway to erect a small pole building that will bunk three on site, outside the gate. There is a work party planned for Sunday a.m. Thou not yet on site, a bowler (sp.) trailer has very generously been loaned. Tents dot the road allowance and others are sleeping in their vans or trucks. Some of this will change as colder weather sets in. People, new and old, visit with supplies and well wishes, for which I am both humbled and appreciative. We are short on dry wood if you could bring a box full or armload when you come.

2) How is your family feeling about your hunger strike?

For the most part, they are of two minds. They fully support what I am doing AND they know me well enough to know that I won’t quit just because it is or gets difficult, so they worry and wonder. I feel for them (probably the hardest part of this for me) and hate that I’m putting them through the turmoil. I wish I could see another way, but I do not. It would probably alleviate the concerns somewhat if I could be in phone and internet contact, but those details have not yet come together and may not for the duration. I love them and that love is returned many-fold. My oldest granddaughter turns nine on Day 13.

Like so many of you, they get that we are given this world for a time, as a gift and a responsibility; as a scared responsibility and a sacred trust. The difference each of us makes in our time here is the legacy that will be remembered by those not yet born.

While others continue the vigil, I’ll be way from the site for a meeting from 5 to 10 p.m. on Sunday. Hope to see some of you over the weekend.

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Day 5:

Finally the sun shone. I experienced a little piece of heaven last night, with a hot shower prior to a lively meeting, and that is a good segue into one of the many questions people are asking:

Am I on the site 24/7?

Just about. I am stepping out for pre-arranged meetings only, and in my absence, there are other folks around. When the court negotiations are finalized and the Algonquins are no longer inside the gate, we will need to set up a schedule to assure that a minimum number of people are here overnight. If you can commit an overnight to the cause in the next month, please hit reply with your availability. But don’t limit yourself to that please, as visits are good for morale and you never know when media might show up. Which is another good segue. Most media have not covered this hunger strike, although they all got the information (including most every community newspaper in Ontario). If you have not seen it in your media source, big or small, please lift the press release off the CCAMU site, and send it to them with a question about why it has not been in, mentioning that it has been going on for however many days. As well, you could write letter to the editors to make people aware that I am here and share the info that way.

How am I doing?

Physically, I am fine. My blood pressure remains good and I’d guess that weight loss has been out five pounds. Retaining body heat and fending off the cold is a constant. Going for short walks, snuggling in close with the campfire and increasingly warmer clothes are taking care of it. Hugs from warmer bodies are never refused. [Does anyone have an “in” with an Arctic clothing company? It took five layers on the top, including a down coat, and three on the bottom yesterday to keep the chill off, so likely nothing I have currently will do when the temperature dips below zero.] I woke in the middle of the night wondering how our vegetable garden was faring.

How am I feeling?

Mostly very peaceful, whether in conversation or in silence and, strangely enough, during these days of upheaval at the camp, content as well. Early one morning I was teary eyed around camp relationships that weren’t what I’d like them to be (sound like any family you know ? ). After sitting with them, these feelings were soon replaced by ones of gratitude for what was/is.

What can I do?

A suggestion for something you can do, no matter where you live in the world, is to make and put out a sign that says “BRING GRAMMA HOME. Such a sign will get people wondering and asking questions and talking to each other. Thanks for returning to CCAMU’s site to check in. The letters and support I’m receiving is humbling, A moratorium will likely take people from around the world standing up to say “Enough. We are past the point where we can continue to sit back and allow business as usual.” Please keep spreading the word. Thanks.
Love Donna

Day 4:

Day 4 brought another overcast day. While it will be good to see the sun when it finally peeks out from behind the clouds, the weather fits the mood of those sitting around the campfire awaiting court news.

My middle daughter, Kassia, brought Zephyr (my youngest granddaughter) for a visit again today and my husband, Mike, has been a couple of times this week, bringing supplies that had been left behind on Monday. I’m grateful to them, and the rest of the family for all the love and caring that they show now and always and for their ongoing support of my efforts to stop uranium exploration and mining in Eastern Canada. What I am working to accomplish will not be possible without that and without folks like Devin Kohl, a grade 8 student, who wrote an awesome letter to the Perth Courier this week. Thanks Devin.

If anyone has a very small propane heater that they could part with temporarily, it would be much appreciated. After two hours of fiddling a couple of the fellas fixed me up with one that is a little too powerful for such a small space, but, for now, I can put it on for a few minutes morning and night under a watchful eye, just to take the dampness out.

Without phone or internet possibilities, it was great to have people stopping by with news of the election and the ‘outside’ world today again today.

DAYS 2 & 3:

I’ve been asked why I am doing this many times over the last few days. It’s an easy question to answer.

Having been part of the generation responsible for bringing about so much havoc to the planet in the way of resource drawdown, toxic waste and pollution, I feel I owe it to my grandchildren, and yours, to step up to the plate and say ‘enough.’

Going on a hunger strike is my attempt at stopping the insanity; hopefully, of getting others to step outside their comfortable lives, and of showing the politicians that the status quo is no longer ok. As I’ve said, I cannot do this in isolation and every voice counts. Our grandchildren and theirs will not thank us for continuing on the current path.

That the two first nations have undertaken severe hardships in their commitment to keep the water clean and the air safe, upriver of the capital city of Canada, is no small feat and they deserve our gratitude as they move into negotiations with the governments of Ontario and Canada. It is our turn to show our appreciation by solid action in support of the mediation process in order to achieve a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining in Eastern Ontario. This hunger strike is just one of many possible actions.

Day 2 was a cool damp day and, without food in my system, I got quite chilled internally. Constant sipping of hot drinks helped, as did multiple layers of coats. Thanks to the folks who’ve brought a heater for the camper; those who donated a vehicle in case of emergency; to those who are supplying me with drinks to keep me going; and to all those who stopped by with words of encouragement and support.

Day 3 had me feeling a little warmer. Several well-wishers stopped for a visit, including a young couple from Guelph, who wanted an interview for their university newspaper. We can win this, one person speaking to another as the message spreads around the province and beyond.

The only safe place for uranium is in the ground, undisturbed. Ideas to create an up swelling of support around the issue are welcome. Please do one action today to move us toward a saner, healthier world, seven generations hence.

Blessings & Love
Donna

photo by Oskar Graf

DAY 1:

We can go a long time without food, but clean water is essential to all life. With that in mind and with the rain holding off, I arrived at the site at noon, today, feeling a bit of trepidation and some anticipation. A short time later my home away from home arrived and the good folks at the site got busy and moved me in. I am indebted to the people who donated the tent camper and those on my support team. Without them, and other supporters, this would not be happening, as they are vital to the success of this campaign.

My debut into the public eye came about when a Global TV reporter and Jeff Green, from Frontenac News, arrived on site for interviews. Harold Perry officially welcomed me and thanked me for what I am doing here and I was able to share with him how much I appreciate the sacrifice that the First Nations have made in keeping our water safe. Some time later, I was also interviewed by a student from Loyalist College.

I’ve been getting lots of response to my action and I want to thank each of you for your comments and prayers. Please know that I am not doing this in isolation and that whatever you can do to help me get the message out is appreciated. Please call, write or email your elected officials. Tell them you want a moratorium on uranium exploration and mining in Eastern Ontario. Or start an action of your own – a women in N.S. is organizing a coalition of grandparents to protest with us (wouldn’t it be grand if that went coast to coast, with people protesting in communities across the country) and some raging grannies are visiting the site on the weekend – or donate as you can, so that the people working on the issue can keep on keeping on. If you can come by the site, please do, as visits go a long way to keeping the moral up here.

Blessings
Donna

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