We are celebrating young changemakers who have become influential supporters of Hydrocephalus Canada. Despite their age, these remarkable individuals have demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Through their philanthropy and passion for social change, they have emerged as catalysts for progress, empowering their peers and inspiring others to join in their efforts. In this report, we shine a light on Emma St. Aubin and her commitment to making a difference in the sbh community. Recognizing the transformative impact they have had on our organization and the communities we serve, we invite you to hear what Emma has to say about her mission to help spread the message.
When and why did you first get involved with Hydrocephalus Canada?
My mom has been involved with the organization since I was around three years old (approximately 15 years ago) and I remember doing garage sales throughout the years and creating my own lemonade stand to raise awareness and proceeds. In 2020, I went through a difficult time due to hydrocephalus and this is when I began to connect with others within the sbh community and discussed with Hydrocephalus Canada how I could become more involved with the organization.
Through the connections I made and friendships created, I realized how important it was to be involved with Hydrocephalus Canada. The organization has supported me for most of my life and I wanted to help give that same experience to others and I truly found my passion of wanting to help others.
Why Did You Decide to Host a Fundraiser?
I just had a shunt revision in May 2022 and it was the first time I had to take time off of school because of recovery. When I returned to school, I had a lot of people asking questions about hydrocephalus. This is when I realized I wanted to raise awareness by hosting a Spirit Wheel Walk Run event in my community. I promoted it throughout my school and spoke on our morning announcements. Because of this, I had multiple teachers and students come up to me throughout the day asking questions and wanting to help raise awareness. I realized the importance of the impact I was creating and always recognized that I don’t know who this information may reach, but it could help someone.
What Do You Wish People Knew About Hydrocephalus & Spina Bifida and/or The Organization?
While I like to say that having hydrocephalus is my invisible superpower, I wish people knew how common the condition actually was and how many people are affected. Having hydrocephalus is one of the things that make me unique, and I am capable of doing the same things as everyone else and work ten times harder. I also wish others knew how many families and individuals Hydrocephalus Canada supports and how a small contribution can greatly affect many!
What is something you can share about yourself?
Throughout the years, I have played multiple sports and really enjoyed it. I particularly loved playing soccer and chose to play at a high level. Over the past couple years, I have endured multiple issues relating to my hydrocephalus. While I was quite upset that I couldn’t play soccer, I have found my passion of helping others and working towards one day becoming a Child Life Specialist. I’ve had different challenges in school due to having surgeries and it has taught me resilience, to never give up, and is shaping me into the person I am today.
What would you tell a prospective supporter/donor to the organization?
Your contributions and donations truly have an important impact. It allows the organization to support people like me in many different ways and it would not be possible without you.
What is your hope for Hydrocephalus Canada in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I hope that Hydrocephalus Canada continues to grow as an organization and continues to serve more people and families across Canada. I also hope we continue to gain more resources to help people living with hydrocephalus and spina bifida.
What is your dream for people living with Hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida?
My dream is that awareness continues to grow and more research is done to improve the current treatments and reduce the amount of surgeries people have to endure. I also dream that everyone living with these conditions can enjoy their lives with minimal impact and benefit from the connection and support of uniting together.
What do you value most from Hydrocephalus Canada?
I have benefited greatly throughout my life from all of the resources provided to me and my family and the support has been tremendous! I am especially grateful for the personal connections made through Hydrocephalus Canada and the special friendships I have, because of those connections. So many aspects of my life have been positively impacted because of this organization!
