Strong enough to challenge John Cena, Lansdowne Walk and Roll ambassador
- Tamara Botting
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 hours ago
Kids at Lansdowne Children’s Centre are strong, but new youth ambassador Mason Bowen is taking the role to next-level confidence and energy.
“I want you, John Cena,” declared Mason during an interview for the upcoming eighth annual Heroes Walk and Roll fundraiser.
A bold statement from a 12-year-old wrestling fan who loves climbing and outdoor activities. This is even more impressive after mom Chrissy (Walsh) noted the difference of how Mason is today to what the family was told to expect by doctors when he was born.
“I remember being told there was a strong possibility that Mason may never walk, talk, or eat normally,” said Chrissy.
Mason was diagnosed at birth with Snijders Blok-Campeau syndrome, a condition causing a severe intellectual disability; he also had severe hypotonia, low oxygen levels, and was unable to eat safely without aspirating.
“When Mason came home from hospital, we were completely overwhelmed. We were learning to care for a child with needs we had never experienced before,” Chrissy said.
“Lansdowne Children’s Centre became one of our greatest sources of support.”
Mason has accessed many Lansdowne services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and social work support.
“Lansdowne became a safe place where we did not have to explain why things were different; they understood,” Chrissy said. “Mason had an entire care team surrounding him.
"That team made an incredible difference not only in Mason’s life, but in the life of our whole family.”
One memory that stands out for Chrissy is when Mason learned how to ride a bike.
“All his siblings were able to do that, and he wasn’t,” said Chrissy. “With the support and endless weeks of physio, we were able to reach that goal, and he rode from one end of the hallway to the other.”
Working together to help kids discover their potential is at the heart of Lansdowne’s family-centered approach. Understanding unique, personal goals influences play-based learning and therapy design.
The greatest moments are celebrating milestone achievements with family and friends.
Those are the moments that offer hope and comfort.
Chrissy knows all too well how lost a parent can feel in the early days of their child’s diagnosis – that’s why she’s quick to remind other parents that they’re not alone.
“Reach out, and don’t be afraid to admit that you need help,” she said. “It can be a lot to handle emotionally...
"Lansdowne is there to help you in any way they can.”
Stories like Mason’s help our community to understand the impact of long-term support. Many Lansdowne families begin their journey in hospital and leave that moment unsure of how to proceed. Connecting with Lansdowne Children’s Centre aligns families with guidance and resources for children up to adulthood.
“At the beginning, we were really fearful of the unknown. We weren’t sure where we were going to go from here. Lansdowne laid out a clear map for us.”
This year, Mason’s many accomplishments – and those of all Lansdowne clients – will be celebrated at the 2026 Heroes Walk and Roll in Brant Park on September 26.
It is the centre’s annual summer fundraising campaign, welcoming all community members to explore attractions and activities in exchange for a donation.
When asked who his favourite hero is, Mason said, “Spider-Man, because he’s a good superhero.” And if Spider-Man were to face off against John Cena? Winner undecided.
Mason, meanwhile, is a hero to many who know and love him, including his mom.
“Mason has overcome so much in his life, but what I love most about him is that he doesn’t let his challenges define him. He’s happy, funny, loving and just loves being included,” Chrissy said.
“I think he represents exactly why these programs (at Lansdowne) matter, because every child deserves the opportunity to participate, be supported and to be celebrated.”
Learn more about the Sept. 26 Lansdowne Heroes Walk and Roll event at www.lansdownecentre.ca/heroeswalkandroll
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