From the Archives: Memorable Moments Throughout the Years
A Legacy of Listening
Each week, Dr. William Orr would personally review new referrals—taking time to sit with staff, ask thoughtful questions, and truly listen. His approach was genuine and grounded in deep respect for the Centre’s mission and the children it served.
As founding Board Chair and first medical director, Dr. Orr’s dedication laid the foundation for the Centre’s lasting impact. He volunteered for over 30 years, never taking a salary, and championed care that was once unavailable in Niagara. His heart never left the Centre—and his legacy lives through the therapy wing that bears his name, the Dr. Orr Trust Fund, and the annual award in his honour.
Our First Computer
In 1979, we welcomed our very first computer—an Apple IIe. With only a handful of basic programs like plotting and graphing, it was a novelty few knew how to use. One OPP officer, familiar with technology, visited regularly to help children explore its capabilities.
By 1982, staff began using computers to enter data, though access was limited to administrative roles.
What began as a single machine sparking curiosity marked the start of our digital journey—one that would evolve to support thousands of children through innovation, data, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Holiday Sleepover
In the 1980s, our staff hosted an annual Holiday Sleepover to give parents a well-deserved night off to enjoy dinner or finish Christmas shopping. Dozens of children spent the night in the gym, transformed into a cozy, festive space. Staff from all departments pitched in—helping with bedtime routines in the evening and getting kids dressed in the morning. The event created lasting bonds between staff and families, reflecting the deep sense of care and community that defined the Centre. For many, it became a heartwarming holiday tradition—and a true expression of support beyond therapy.
Spring Play Days
For many years, springtime at the Centre meant one thing for our co-op students: Play Day. As part of their 13-week placements, university students from across Ontario planned and hosted a themed celebration for children attending the Centre’s on-site school.
The playground was transformed into a festival of activity stations —sometimes with a Hawaiian flair, other years with different creative themes—all designed to encourage play, movement, and joy. It wasn’t just fun for the kids; it was a hands-on learning experience that brought together education, therapy, and community in the most colourful way.
A Northern Mission
In 1994, a small team of staff braved the coldest January on record to visit Kenora, Ontario. Invited by the local child development community, the Centre’s feeding team flew from Thunder Bay in a four-seater plane, eventually landing in the icy heart of Northwestern Ontario.
Staying on the edge of the frozen bay, the team spent days consulting with local professionals and visiting nearby Indigenous communities—sometimes working in rooms as cold as -20°C. Together, they explored how to assess and support children with feeding disorders, bridging clinical knowledge with cultural understanding.
A Dream Delayed, Not Denied
On September 11, 2001, a group of our clients boarded a plane bound for Disney World through the Dreams Take Flight program. Mid-air, the world changed. With U.S. airspace shut down, the plane landed in Florida—but Disney had closed.
Stranded for three days with only one day’s worth of medication, the group found unexpected support. Local doctors refilled prescriptions, and Boy Scouts stepped in to entertain the children.
In a moment of global crisis, strangers became caregivers. It was a powerful reminder: compassion knows no borders—and every child still deserves a little magic.
Bridging Borders
In the early 2000s, two Centre staff travelled to Slovenia on a three-week Rotary International exchange. Hosted by the Rehabilitation Institute of Ljubljana, they shared Canadian approaches to AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) while learning from local practices. From programming unfamiliar German-language devices to lecturing 90 doctors with less than a day’s notice, the experience was both demanding and unforgettable.
Their days were long, their nights full of prep work—and yet, what stood out most was the shared dedication to helping children reach their full potential, no matter the country.
Big League Inspiration
Over the years, children at the Centre have had the thrill of meeting their sports heroes. From the Toronto Maple Leafs, Blue Jays, Raptors, and Buffalo Sabres to local favourites like the Niagara IceDogs, River Lions, and Welland Jackfish, these visits brought smiles, autographs, and unforgettable memories.
Thanks to a generous gift from the Smilezone Foundation, the Centre’s pool and gym now proudly sport a Niagara IceDogs theme—creating an energizing, team-spirited space for therapy and play. These moments remind us how community support and star power can inspire courage, joy, and determination in every child.