I love to skate

Courtesy of Canadian Tire Jumpstart, in partnership with the Ottawa Senators Foundation & the City of Ottawa, Joseph just participated in the most amazing program called "I Love to Skate". The program provided him with new skates, helmet and skating lessons.

Joseph received skating lessons from qualified instructors at the Albion Heatherington Rec Centre seasonal outdoor rink. Over the course of only 4 lessons, you quickly saw the progress he made and the confidence he gained on the ice. Something he had never been able to do. He had never skated before.

Skating is a sport where he can be successful. He can participate with his friends and have fun, but he isn't dependent on them like he would in a group sport. 

Then came the amazing part .. he was to be able to skate at the Canadian Tire Centre. On Saturday, March 14, 2015, all the children who participated in the program were invited to the Canadian Tire Centre for a skating pizza party. How amazing is that ! A once in a lifetime opportunity for over 500 children !

Children traveled to the CT Centre by school bus and were invited to one of their meeting halls where they were welcomed by representatives of the partner groups. Everywhere there was staff and volunteers to help and support our kids. 

Then it was time to suit up and head to the ice. Each child received their own jersey. They lined up and headed out on the ice.

There is nothing like watching your child, his friends and so many other children experiencing a once in a lifetime moment. I don't know that everyone realized how lucky they were. Actually I sadly know some didn't.

After an hour or so on the ice, the children, parents and staff were treated to a pizza party and cake.

Then while they waited for their trip back home, they were treated to an entertainer. The children loved it and I saw Joseph laughing so hard. A much appreciated activity after what was for some a long day. And we all know how waiting can be difficult.

 

And before we knew it, it was time to head home.

I don't quite know how many thank yous can be said for this amazing day. All the time and effort putting this together and organizing it in a way that was just perfect. I know Joseph will remember this forever. It may not seem like this was all that difficult for him, but it was. There was a time where I don't think he could of gotten through all this. The noise and chaos of so many children and so much going on would of easily been overwhelming to him and his sensory disorder. But over time, it has gotten better and easier for him to do bigger outings and activities. I never gave up even when it seemed hard, I have always continued to take him out and let him love and experience the world. Keeping a close eye, watching for just that moment ... getting ahead of it. Surrounding him with amazing people and friends like Zeina, Julie & Kim who understand and have always been kinder than words can say. There is great people out there who are willing to take the time and appreciate what makes our kids special and happy. Thanks to everyone who created this amazing day for all our children.