Fundraiser launched for Metro Vancouver man attacked by bear in northern B.C.

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – A man from Metro Vancouver is recovering after being attacked by a black bear in northern B.C. nearly three weeks ago.

Gil Graham, a field technician in the mineral exploration industry, was setting up a work camp north of Mackenzie on May 31 when he apparently startled the bear and it attacked.

“After a long career Gil was nearing retirement. During his career he has had numerous encounters with bears however this one was different,” reads a GoFundMe set up to help his recovery and family.

The fundraiser says Graham’s left thigh was severely hurt in the attack. He was rushed to a medical clinic on Tsay Keh Dene Nation near Williston Lake then airlifted to hospital in Prince George for surgery.

“Gil has a long hard road of recovery/rehabilitation ahead of him which is estimated will take more than a year. Our gofundme (sic) goal is to help Gil with his recovery recognizing that there will be many costs and unexpected expenses that will arise,” the fundraiser states. “Gil is truly a one of a kind, stand-up guy with a great sense of humour and a sincere willingness to help others before himself.”