Turning Anguish into Action: Tiffany Agnew and The Braedon Foundation
The Braedon Foundation, founded by Tiffany Agnew in honour of her son, Braedon, offers New Brunswick children with life-threatening or high-risk illnesses either a bedroom makeover or a shopping spree. “I just want to give them something fun and positive to focus on and give their parents a chance to see the kids just being kids. They’re given these diagnosis that are, you know, far beyond their years. They’re really forced to grow up so fast and it’s really hard,” she explains.
Grandparents taking active roles in raising local families
Science says babysitting is good for grandparents. A study of German senior citizens found those who helped out with little ones had a 37% lower mortality risk. Researchers believe that the physical and mental activity, as well as the sense of purpose, helps reduce stress.
Family 1st: Creating connections in a new city
“I was four months pregnant and I didn’t know anyone. Most of the friends I made were through my spouse’s job, and everybody was nice, but I just didn’t have all the connections I was used to after living in Halifax for my whole life. I was craving that sense of community. What I found from putting myself out there is that most people aren’t from here. Fredericton has a lot of people who didn’t grow up here. We have posting season and new families moving here. Once I found that, I realized I’m not alone.”
Courtney Larkin, founder of Happy Hour Club and Luna Baby Pillow