For Harold Johnson a brutal assault will likely mean early retirement.
Johnson, a security guard who's worked in Chinatown since 2002 according to the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden Society, has been a popular and beloved community member during his time in the area.
However, on Friday, Aug. 12, he was on his morning patrol, which includes asking people to move along if they had set up near the garden.
When asking a man later identified as 44-year-old Kevin Aaron Hibbard to move, "Harold was allegedly punched a number of times in the face resulting in multiple injuries: broken nose, lacerations above the eye and possible nerve damage," says the garden society online.
While Johnson, 64, was expecting to retire next year, the society says those plans have been moved up due to the injuries he suffered.
In order to help with his recovery and unplanned retirement, the society has launched a fundraiser.
"The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden Society of Vancouver will be collecting funds for Harold Johnson to show our gratitude and appreciation for his 20 years of dedication and commitment to the Chinatown community," they write on a GoFundMe page.
So far the community response has been significant. In one day $9,000 has been raised, and that number is still climbing.
Along with the donations, people have been leaving messages for Johnson on the fundraiser page.
"So sad to hear the news, wish you all the best!" Michelle Kwok writes.
"Though I haven’t met you personally I have seen you around the neighbourhood and I appreciate the effort and dedication to your job that you have exhibited," writes John Kostiuk. "I hope you make a full recovery. Thank you for contributing to the community."
