Colleen and Anthony Lessard live in Kitchener with their five children – Paige (13), Lindsay (10), Bryson (9), Lily (6) and Remington (4). Lindsay has Epilepsy, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and is medically fragile, Bryson has educational disabilities, and Lily has mild Cerebral Palsy.

A year ago, Lindsay underwent risky surgery to reduce her seizures from her brain injury. Thankfully, she is doing well but requires 24/7 supervision due to her medical and cognitive needs. Because of this, both parents work opposite shifts to meet Lindsay’s needs and provide for their family.

This morning, the Lessard family received a special surprise from the students and staff at Huron Heights Secondary School. It has become an annual tradition that the Grade 12 Business Leadership students embark on a hands-on assignment that helps a local family in our community. Students have been working hard to fundraise since September, including, but not limited to, hosting a massive charity auction in the school’s library.

Today, they presented a cheque of $7,200 to the Lessard family and $1,000 gift card to Great Wolf Lodge.

The funds raised will help cover past and present medical expenses for Lindsay, and a short respite (break; time together) for the family – something they have never had the opportunity to enjoy.

But the Lessard family received more than just a cheque and gift card this morning, Paige was surprised with a trumpet thanks to a generous $400 donation from Long and McQuade. She has been playing the instrument at her school for two years and has asked for one for Christmas since, but it simply was not possible for the family…not this year!

Watch below as the Huron Heights Huskies surprise the Lessard family with this amazing gift:


We are counting down 12 days of giving where we feature some of the wonderful acts of kindness our staff and students are modelling during the holiday season.

You can check out all of the great acts of giving in our schools (there’s more than just 12) by following us on TwitterInstagram or Facebook.

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Categories: Husky News