The true gift is the one that you give away.
This statement is meaningful in so many ways. Through learning to cope, I have learned that true happiness comes from inner kindness, and that we feel better when we make others feel better.
This re-occuring lesson came from our son Jacob, who was born with a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disease called Canavan Disease. We were told that Jacob wouldn’t live to see his fourth birthday, so at 13 years of age, every day feels like his birthday.
Each morning, he will gather all the strength in the world to catch his breath. Once this mission is accomplished, he will smile a triumphant smile to welcome the new day ahead.
Because of Jacob, we have seen small miracles occur daily. From the patience of his younger sister and brother and family, to the warmth and love of his teachers and caregivers, to the kindness of our friends and strangers in our community, Jacob radiates a smile and that smile is very contagious! It’s amazing that Jacob isn’t able to walk, talk, see, eat or move on his own, but he spends his day smiling at the world surrounding him. He asks for nothing, yet appreciates everything. We have witnessed the satisfaction that others feel when helping Jacob, especially children.
Through his inspiration, Jacob’s Ladder was born. Since its inception, Jacob’s Ladder has raised over $2 million for research, awareness and education into neurodegenerative illnesses.
Each year, Jacob’s Ladder hosts the Giving Gala, as we try to teach others to discover the true power of giving. This year, we will open a weekend-long warehouse called Jake’s Gigantic Give. With a ticket, children and adults can drop in at 150 Lesmill Rd. and choose gifts that will be given to many other children in need. Accepting the gift packages that the children create will be Starlight Starbright Children’s Charity, Chai Lifeline, Children’s Aid Society, Jewish Family and Child Services, Jean Tweed Centre and Chum City Wish. Funds from this event will be donated to SickKids Foundation in the arena of neurodegenerative illnesses. Nearly everything is donated, including the gifts, the performances, the venue, the sound system, the design, the printing, the food, the beverages and the volunteer time, which, to me, is the most precious.
As Jacob’s mother, I am so proud and weepy to witness what has transpired from a life that could have been so tragic. We have seen the community come together. We have witnessed our friends and family bond together for the love of one very special young boy. Jacob may not be able to speak, yet he can teach, and he has definitely taught all of us about sacrifice, love and the power of giving.
We are so proud to celebrate Jacob’s life with Jake’s Gigantic Give, as his gift can give to so many others just in time for the holiday spirit. He has shown us what can result from sharing and caring, so why not spread the word?
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