The only child of two alcoholics, Oliver spent his childhood and adolescence in the homes of strangers. A chance summer job with the local CBC station launched his broadcasting career, taking Oliver from Prince Rupert, B.C. to Ottawa, Washington, and Central America, and eventually to chief parliamentary correspondent for CTV News. At the same time, Oliver pursued a personal passion for Canadas wilderness rivers, paddling some of the remotest waters in western and northern Canada with political and media figures such as Tim Kotcheff and Pierre Trudeau. Most surprising is the revelation that this comfortable television presenter has been legally blind for a decade. Includes strong language. c2011.