– a personal story shared by Andy Macaulay, July 2022
My partner Lucy Stryland loved all children. As an early childhood educator working with preschoolers in day care centres run by Waterloo Region, she found purpose and joy in supporting hundreds of children to grow, learn and explore — helping them become them. It was in this role that she first became aware of KidsAbility and the difference its work makes in kid’s lives.
Last October 28, Lucy lost her fight with metastatic cancer, only 8 weeks after her diagnosis. She was home, surrounded by her loved ones, and most importantly her grown son, Marcus. He was the centre of her life.
As we grappled with our grief, we sought ways to honour Lucy for the difference she made in the world. We knew the answer lay in helping kids, in something that would make Lucy’s heart smile, and be purposeful. Lucy had no time for vanity, and she would be embarrassed if someone created an overt memorial for her. In life, she wanted simply to get stuff done. So that’s what we wanted to do in her honour.
Like every donor, we wanted our gift in Lucy’s honour to make the same impact as she did in life. After searching many possibilities in the region, KidsAbility was the obvious answer.
We learned from the team at KidsAbility Foundation of the immediate need for investment in interactive whiteboard technology. These boards help deliver learning experiences for children with varied needs and abilities to succeed.
With the help of friends and family and a giving platform to enable the breadth and flow of donations, we were able to purchase two Promethean whiteboards for learning in special education programs for junior kindergarten children at the KidsAbility School. It was the perfect way to give and what Lucy would have wanted.
A Note from Lisa, Executive Director, KidsAbility Foundation: Lucy’s memorial gift will impact generations of children. Should you wish to honour a loved one’s joys and passions with a lasting legacy, please connect with me by phone at 519.886.8886 ext.1201 or email at ltalbot@kidsability.ca