By Angie Sullivan
A hockey player from Keswick is recovering at home after being involved in a serious motor vehicle collision, and the community is coming together to help support him during his recovery.
On Jan. 12, 2026, Ronnie Wiersema was involved in a head-on collision on Lake Ridge Road and was transported to hospital by ambulance. The accident was severe enough that he had to be extricated from his vehicle.
His GoFundMe page shared, “After a long day, we’re grateful to share that he is doing well and is now home resting and recovering.”
Wiersema is a member of the Georgina Ice Junior Hockey Club, and the team posted this note on its Facebook page: “Ronnie is a dedicated hockey player who proudly wears #88 for the Georgina Ice, and being able to get back to his normal routine — including the sport he loves — means everything to him. Fans, we ask you keep Ronnie in your thoughts.”
While Wiersema’s physical recovery is progressing well, the accident has created significant financial challenges. His 2013 vehicle was written off as a result of the collision, and due to the type of insurance coverage he had, he will not receive funds toward a replacement vehicle. In addition, there are ongoing expenses related to recovery, transportation, and daily life that have added unexpected strain.
Melissa Hardy created the GoFundMe campaign to support Ronnie as he focuses on healing. “As word of the accident spread, many people reached out asking how they could help, which led to the creation of the fundraiser,” she said.
Funds raised will go toward securing a reliable vehicle so he can attend medical appointments, get to work, and continue rebuilding his routine following the accident.
Hardy said, “Accidents are unexpected, and this one came at an especially difficult time. After breaking both wrists last summer and being off work for months, Ronnie had just started a new job and returned to the sport he loves as a proud Georgina Ice player, wearing #88 for the fourth straight year.”
Community members wishing to support Ronnie can find the GoFundMe campaign online.
https://gofund.me/90e3d0b14
- Federal impact assessment not required for Georgina Island Fixed Link: IAAC - January 21, 2026
- New carbon monoxide rules are now in effect - January 19, 2026
- Building Healthy Kids: Practical Support for Families, Right When It’s Needed Most - January 18, 2026
