Tyson is 35 years old, social, upbeat, and known for his playful sense of humour, love of music, and ability to make people feel welcome. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy, he uses assistive technology to communicate, taking the time he needs to share his thoughts with care and intention. Tyson began attending Easter Seals camp at around six years old, an experience that quietly shaped his life. What first felt intimidating soon became a place where he felt supported, encouraged, and free to be himself, laying the foundation for the confidence he carries into his relationships and community today.
Camp helped Tyson build independence and belief in himself. Over the years, he attended camps in Squamish, Winfield, and Shawnigan, forming friendships that lasted long after summer ended. From the thrill of the big swing to a memorable bus trip to see Superman, camp made him feel capable and included. That sense of belonging followed him into adulthood. Now 35, Tyson brings that confidence into everyday life, inspiring those around him to believe in possibility.
That belief naturally led Tyson to service and leadership. A proud member of the Maple Ridge Lions Club, he joined because of their long-standing support of Easter Seals and shared commitment to giving back. Tyson recalls the Lions helping fund a camp roof years ago and sees his role as continuing that legacy. Fundraising, volunteering, and inviting others to get involved come naturally to him. For Tyson, inclusion is something you actively create.
Dakota has been part of Tyson’s journey since his high school years, when their paths first crossed through her practicum work. They often met at Coffee House, a welcoming space where people gather to socialize, enjoy live music, and dance. Tyson would watch Dakota dance with her students, and through conversation their friendship grew. He often asked if she wanted another job, holding onto the hope that one day she would support him and dance beside him.
Two years ago, that hope became reality when Dakota officially became Tyson’s personal support worker. By then, she had built a family of her own with three children, while her bond with Tyson continued to deepen. Over time, Tyson became like a younger brother to Dakota and a beloved uncle to her children, who admire him greatly, while also helping Dakota step beyond her comfort zone through performance and advocacy, reminding her what is possible when you move through doubt.
Shaped by her own family hardship and loss, Dakota had long carried a promise to one day support families through difficult seasons, a promise that met Tyson’s dream when he asked her to be his dance partner for Dancing in the Ridge, a fundraiser for the Maple Ridge Community Foundation. Inspired by Tyson’s sister and niece, who had previously won gold in their own dance competitions, he stepped onto the stage not to win, but to honour family and give back, responding to any doubt with a simple truth: “It’s to support families.”
Together, Tyson and Dakota became Guardians of a Wishing Well, a creative partnership that turns hope into action through dance, storytelling, and community engagement. Their name reflects what they strive to do: turn wishes into real possibilities, create belonging, open doors, and remind families they are seen and supported.
Looking ahead to 2026, Tyson’s goals remain rooted in giving back. He hopes to present at more schools across the Lower Mainland, advocating for inclusivity and educating students about cerebral palsy.
He is also eager to work with Easter Seals to launch a fundraising campaign for assistive camp equipment, led by the growing Guardians of a Wishing Well community. It is a full-circle vision shaped by camp, strengthened by family, and driven by a deep commitment to helping others belong, thrive, and be heard.
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