Kipper's Drama Class Trip to New York!

Kip has a tremendous opportunity arise - the chance to go to New York City this year with their drama class on a once-in-a-lifetime trip designed for every drama nerd's dream. (They had us at 5 Broadway shows and an acting class...) but the biggest reason we are getting behind Kip for this trip is we are all about giving this kid HOPE. Read on...

Many of you know that in 2019 Kip suffered a concussion that took them out of their Grade 6 year for 4 months and caused them to give up many of their extracurricular activities. What you may not know is that in 2020, Kip had a re-injury that triggered concussion symptoms again, but this time right when they were headed back to school COVID-19 hit - and this time everyone's activities were cancelled - including a special 13th birthday trip with their Uncle Matt to New York City. Since 2020, Kip has had a bump - some large or small - that have re-injured and triggered what is known as post-concussion syndrome each school year, and sadly this year is no exception.

Although Kip is extremely careful and aware of their limitations, at the start of September Kip stood up underneath some stairs at school and bumped their head again. This is especially frustrating because even the slightest bump to the head, which you and I would have no problem with, can erase months of recovery as they continue to work with a vision therapist and a concussion physiotherapist to help with rehabilitation. Kip also works with a special team at school to help with an education plan and academic adaptations and even with all the mental challenges of living with a concussion, they have not only managed to keep up in school but even achieved honours grades and a special distinction award in Social Studies. 

But what is harder is keeping up hope. Kip has had to give up their sports of choice, skateboarding aerial silks. so we are very happy that Kip has found drama because it is a class that has been able to adapt and flex based on Kip's daily capabilities and capacity.

We are looking at this trip as something that has given Kipper something to look forward to and motivation to continue the long and slow journey of concussion recovery. As you know, travelling has gotten more expensive and more difficult over the last few years. Kip needs to raise $4500 to cover absolutely everything for their trip, including some incredibly important and extremely extensive health insurance. The first deposit is $1000 due October 11th.

If you are feeling incredibly generous, Kip might want to send you some delicious baking or make you a custom crochet creation!

HOWEVER, anyone who makes a lame joke about Kip needing to wear a helmet should definitely donate at least $200 ;-)

(#kiddingnotkidding #nohelmetjokes #notfunnyanymore) 

No matter if you are able to give or not, what we value most over all these years is your ongoing friendship and all your love and care for our whole family. Thank you SO MUCH for partnering with us as we continue to fight for hope alongside our wonderful Kip.

Here's to New York!

Wade, Joanna, Sunny, Kip, and Pax Pallister