‘Lansdowne is a formidable association making major differences in the lives of children and families’

Lansdowne celebrates 2025 Heroes Walk and Roll

It might have been the start of October, but it felt like a midsummer carnival in the Brant Conservation Area on Oct. 4 at the annual Lansdowne Children’s Centre Heroes Walk and Roll celebration.

There were carnival games, face painting, special superhero guests, live music, vendors, and more for guests to enjoy – it was an accessible event for everyone.

Leading up to the event, fundraisers were asked to collect donations and complete 49 laps – this could be a lap around the block, around the kitchen, on a walking track, etc.

Everyone was then invited to do the 50^th lap together at Heroes Walk and Roll, where they were also encouraged to dress up as whatever ‘hero’ means to them.

The star of the day was Isla Clarke, who served as the event ambassador, and led the 50^th lap with her family.

Isla’s parents, Nicole and Cody Clarke, shared a few words at the event.

Nicole noted that

“Lansdowne has been a vital part of Isla’s life for as long as she can remember. We are incredibly grateful for the services and resources that we have access to, and for all the incredible people we have met there.”

Nicole said that as a parent to a child with Cerebral Palsy, “There are moments of joy and pride so deep, they take your breath away, and there are moments of exhaustion, fear and loneliness that are just as intense. Parents of special needs children face daily battles that others may never see … We learn to advocate fiercely, because if we don’t, no one else will.”

Cody added that while the parenting journey is extremely rewarding, it can also feel very isolating at times.

“No parent should feel alone, and no child should feel invisible.

No disability should be a barrier to friendship, acceptance or joy, and that’s where Lansdowne Children’s Centre plays a pivotal role, by nurturing development and building a community of trust and support.”

The event saw representatives from all levels of government come and share words of encouragement and support.

Brantford-Brant MP Larry Brock praised everyone who utilizes the services at Lansdowne, their families, and those who support the work done at the centre.

“You are the real everyday heroes. You don’t need special costumes, you don’t need masks, because what you do every day is so, so special, and we are so glad that Lansdowne is making every single day a better day for each and every one of you.”

While Brantford-Brant MPP Will Bouma couldn’t attend, he did send along greetings that said, in part, “This yearly event pulls the community together in a wonderful way with a common goal: helping our kids.”

Speaking on behalf of himself and the rest of the City of Brantford, Councillor Michael Sullivan said, “Lansdowne is a formidable association making major differences in the lives of children and families.”

While the final total of funds raised isn’t yet available – Lansdowne will continue to accept donations towards Heroes Walk and Roll until October 31 – it was announced at the Oct. 4 event that over $30,000 in donations had already been confirmed.

For more information on how to contribute to Heroes Walk and Roll, visit www.lansdownecentre.ca/foundation