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Cambridge 98-year-old to walk 98 laps in support of SickKids

Joan Thomlinson aims to raise over $2,000 for SickKids by completing her goal
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Seasons Cambridge resident Joan Thomlinson, 98, pictured during a campaign for the Cambridge Food Bank last year, is leading a new campaign to raise money for SickKids. She has pledged to walk 98 laps around the retirement home's rooftop walking track during the initiative aimed at raising more than $2,000.

Seasons Retirement Communities is pleased to announce its new fundraising initiative with SickKids Foundation, ‘Strides for SickKids,’ which begins today and runs until the end of May.

The campaign is being led by Seasons resident Joan Thomlinson, who recently celebrated her 98th birthday and says she wants to give back to the community by walking 98 laps around the outdoor walking track at the retirement home to raise funds for The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids).

“Joan embodies the spirit of giving and courage that we cherish at Seasons Cambridge,” said Erica Boer, Fun Manager at Seasons Cambridge Retirement Community in a  press release.

“Her determination to make a difference and inspire others is truly commendable. We are honoured to stand beside her and support the ‘Strides for SickKids’ campaign.”

Last year, Joan captured the community’s heart by walking 97 laps around the walking track at Seasons Cambridge, raising an impressive $1,600 in donations and collecting over 200 pounds of food for the Cambridge Food Bank for her ‘Footsteps for Food’ fundraising campaign.

This year, Joan has increased her fundraising goal, aiming to raise $2,098 for SickKids by completing 98 laps around the residence and also zip lining in Niagara Falls for the first time!

“My dad used to tell me to leave the world in a better place than when I arrived,” shared Joan. “I want to contribute to giving kids the care they deserve and show them that you’re never too old or too young to accomplish anything.”

Joan is an active member of the Seniorosity Team, a volunteer-driven program supports and gives back to the local community through fundraising efforts, charitable donations, and random acts of kindness.

She continues to come up with innovative community initiatives and projects to support the local community.

“It’s hard to convey how grateful we are to have fundraisers like Joan, who, through unique events, continue to show their support for the patients and families at SickKids,” says Katie McHugh-Escobar, director, community partnerships at SickKids Foundation.

“Whether you’re eight or 98, events like this highlight the breadth of support we feel from the community. Walking 98 laps and zip lining in Niagara Falls is a true testament to Joan’s dedication and daring spirit; we’ll be cheering her on every step of the way!”

‘Strides for SickKids’ runs to May 31. Donations can be made online through this campaign’s fundraising page by clicking HERE.

Funds raised will support the highest priority needs at SickKids.