News & Stories

Jordan is an 11 year old boy with a heart condition. While most 11 year old boys enjoy busy, boisterous activities, Jordan’s life features regular doctor appointments and carefully adapted activities that often feel very isolating. Any minor injury could be catastrophic for Jordan and there have been many trips to the hospital over a simple nosebleed. It can be rather lonely when your most frequent interaction is with medical professionals. Jordan’s mother Sarah, applied to have a Big Brother for him so that he could enjoy a relationship that didn’t revolve around his medical needs.

That’s when Ben entered the picture, and the two have been inseparable ever since. Ben encourages Jordan to try new activities, and helps him with his school work. They enjoy going to the movies, mini-golfing, and hockey games. Jordan has developed the courage to do things outside of his comfort zone, and the world has become a new and exciting place.

When Jordan’s health took a turn for the worse, Ben often came to see him in the hospital, and he has been a constant throughout Jordan’s recovery process. Having a Big Brother has impacted Jordan’s life in so many positive ways. The isolation and loneliness of child illness has dissipated and Ben has helped Jordan develop courage and curiosity. Statistics show that having a mentor can dramatically increase a child’s self-confidence, academic performance, and engagement in learning, and there is a great need out there for more mentors!

If you’ve ever had an interest in making a difference in someone else’s life,  be sure to check out our website Boys & Girls Clubs Big Brothers Big Sisters of Edmonton & Area (bgcbigs.ca) to learn more, and begin volunteering today!

*Names have been changed
Jordan – 11 years old
Ben – match
Mom – Sarah