A new book by longtime Sandy Hill resident Jo-Ann Oosterman

Tom’s Story tells of Jo-Ann’s friendship with Tom Hogan, a First Nations man who was perpetually homeless, a self-described chronic alcoholic, and a person who had episodes of psychosis. He was also a magical storyteller and a gifted Woodland-style artist. Jo-Ann met Tom in 1998 when she volunteered to help co-ordinate an art group for people marginalized because of poverty, addictions, mental illness, trauma, and homelessness.  With Tom’s permission, she documented the hard realities of his life.

It is available in local, independent bookstores.