The Wilkinson Family Ignites Giving Tuesday with a Pledge of Home and Hope for L’Arche Sudbury

L’Arche Sudbury proudly joins forces with the Wilkinson family for an upcoming Giving Tuesday campaign, a day that epitomizes generosity and community spirit. This year, Giving Tuesday falls on November 28th and is an important day for charities to raise funds all over the world. Dr. Chad Wilkinson, a passionate advocate for those with developmental disabilities, generously shared cherished memories from his childhood, emphasizing the profound influence of his aunt, Linda Sunstrum.

Dr. Wilkinson’s reminiscence unveils a vibrant picture of Linda’s spirited personality. He recalls, “She was very affectionate as a person. I remember when she would get emotional about something she would grab your arm and she would say ‘Hold me, Chum.’ It’s a term my family and I still use to this day.” This term, born out of moments of emotional expression, became a cherished family tradition.

One particularly vivid memory showcases Linda’s resilience and humour. After a mishap that resulted in a hurt ankle, Linda’s dramatic flair shone through even in the ambulance. Dr. Wilkinson chuckles as he recalls, “While driving in the ambulance to the hospital, my aunt Linda was very upset but stopped dead in her tracks, got very serious, looked at my Mom and said ‘Hey sis. SIRENS,’ to remind them ‘Hey, you better put the sirens on while we’re driving to the hospital!’ Because she wanted and loved the drama.”

“One thing that I am so proud of L’Arche for is the opportunities they are giving to developmentally disabled citizens of Sudbury,” he shares. In reflecting on Linda’s life, Dr. Wilkinson acknowledges the absence of such opportunities in her earlier years. “My aunt Linda was sequestered for the first 30-40 years of her life because there were no organizations like L’Arche Sudbury available for her. She was in her parent’s house somewhat isolated from the community.”

These memories propel the Wilkinson family’s commitment to L’Arche Sudbury’s Giving Tuesday campaign. They have pledged up to $20,000 to kickstart the campaign, matching every dollar that is donated by the community.

Dr. Wilkinson encapsulates the essence of L’Arche Sudbury’s mission: “These opportunities expose the value Core Members (individuals with intellectual disabilities) have as participants in the Sudbury community.” The Giving Tuesday campaign aligns with this vision, aiming to raise funds that will enable L’Arche Sudbury to continue providing a sense of home, belonging, and meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities.