I’m starting this fundraiser on behalf of Lindyn’s family, with the hope of turning the love and support that surrounded Lindyn into something that will continue to make a difference in the lives of children in Lindyn's community.

Lindyn faced challenges throughout her young life that required a level of resilience and determination far beyond her years. And she never gave up, not for one second.

Lindyn was so lucky to have an amazing team of professionals around her that supported her and helped her accomplish so much in her 7 years. She attended physiotherapy sessions weekly from the time she was 2 years old. She also had access to weekly speech therapy, often bi-weekly occupational therapy and regular sessions with her beloved educational assistant. She was also working very hard during tutoring sessions with her kindergarten teacher to prepare for Grade 2. Those therapies that Lindyn and her family were so fortunate to access during her life were so crucial in allowing Lindyn to thrive and be the perfect, confident, vibrant girl that she was.

One of Lindyn’s greatest loves was Taekwondo. For Lindyn, Taekwondo wasn't simply about learning kicks, punches, or earning belts. It was a place where she could challenge herself, build confidence, feel proud of what her body could accomplish, and be surrounded by people who believed in her. She was so proud to be a martial artist and the difference taekwondo made in her life was immeasurable.

Lindyn’s community meant so much.

Her coaches, therapists, teachers, friends, and families who supported her became part of Lindyn’s story. They encouraged her, celebrated her accomplishments and watched her grow. Lindyn gave that community just as much as she received from it - her determination, her humour, her enthusiasm, and that unmistakable ‘Lindy spark’. She taught the people around her that strength is simply finding the courage to never give up and that we can do hard things.

In the wake of losing Lindyn - Jon, Nicole and Leighton have been overwhelmed by the incredible love and support shown by the community. And they want to turn that love into something that lives on - and something that they feel would make Lindyn proud.

They know how fortunate they were to have the team of people supporting Lindyn that they did. So, rather than allowing Lindyn’s story to end with her passing, her family hopes to create a legacy that reflects the way she lived: with resilience, courage, determination, and a heart for others.

This fundraiser will help support children in Okotoks and area, particularly children who need a little extra support along the way. Those “on the cusp” kids like Lindyn who don’t necessarily meet the typical criteria to receive the supports they deserve, but would benefit the way Lindyn did from that extra support that she was so fortunate to access.

A portion of the funds will go toward helping children participate in taekwondo, giving them the opportunity to experience the same sense of belonging, confidence, accomplishment, and community that meant so much to Lindyn.

Funds will also support children who need additional services, including speech therapy, physiotherapy, and other supports that can help them develop, participate, and reach their fullest potential.

We cannot give Lindyn more years. We cannot give her back to the people who love her. But we can make sure that the love she gave us doesn't disappear. We can put it into another child’s journey. We can help another little girl or boy walk into a taekwondo class and discover confidence. We can help a child access the speech or physiotherapy services they need to thrive. We can help a family who is struggling feel that their community is standing beside them. We can give another child the chance to experience some of the joy, belonging, and possibility that Lindyn found in her own life. And in doing so, we can keep a little piece of Lindyn with us.

Losing Lindyn has been unimaginable. The hole that Jon, Nicole and Leighton move forward with is unbearable. Lindyn was their light, pride and purpose and going on without her feels impossible. But, if they can find some comfort and peace in assisting kids like Lindyn access supports that would make a difference in that child’s life - it feels like a way of bringing Lindyn with them as they navigate this world without her.

Every donation, no matter how big or small, will help carry Lindyn’s legacy forward. If you aren't able to donate, sharing this fundraiser is another meaningful way to help.

Lindyn was only seven, but the impact she had on the people who knew her was immeasurable. She truly made our lives better simply by being in them.

Thank you for loving Lindyn, for supporting her family, and for helping us turn her memory into something that will continue to help others.