The Bourassa Savaria Foundation and Family Connections
When someone sustains a spinal cord injury, the impact extends beyond the individual. Family members often become caregivers, advocates, and sources of daily support as they navigate a new and often unfamiliar reality alongside their loved one.
Recognizing the unique challenges families face, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario envisioned a program dedicated specifically to supporting those who support others.
The Bourassa Savaria Foundation immediately understood the value of that vision.
Thanks to the generous commitment of The Bourassa Savaria Foundation, Family Connections was created to provide family members with practical knowledge, emotional support, and opportunities to connect with others who understand their experiences, and for 7 years The Bourassa Savaria Foundation has made certain families received the support they need.
“Giving back is one of the most important things I can do in life. I’m proud to grow The Bourassa Savaria Foundation each year to do more,” says Marcel Bourassa.
Today, as we celebrate the success and ongoing impact of Family Connections, we are grateful to The Bourassa Savaria Foundation for their partnership and investment in families across Ontario.
Since its launch July 2, 2020, Family Connections has helped family members build confidence, strengthen coping skills, and develop supportive peer networks. Participants learn about topics including grief and loss, stress management, communication, relationship changes, sexuality and intimacy, problem solving, boundary setting, and navigating healthcare and community systems.
Delivered virtually, the program reaches families throughout Ontario, ensuring that support is available regardless of location. Its impact extends beyond the formal sessions through a thriving ongoing drop-in group where participants continue to share experiences, learn from one another, and build lasting connections.
Family Connections is facilitated by Sheri Upper and Stephanie Bolton, who bring a combined 38 years of valuable experience supporting people impacted by spinal cord injury to their roles. The program is grounded in research conducted by Dr. Gaya Jeyathevan, whose work examined how families can be best supported in caregiving roles and everyday life.
Survey results show Peer Support Family Connections has a 100% recommendation rate and 88% approval rate to date.
“The success of Family Connections is a testament to what can happen when philanthropy, research, and community need come together. We are deeply grateful to The Bourassa Savaria Foundation for their vision, generosity, and ongoing commitment to families impacted by spinal cord injury.” Michael Richardson, CEO, Spinal Cord Injury Ontario
We thank The Bourassa Savaria Foundation for making this program possible and for their commitment to improving the lives of people with spinal cord injuries and their families.
Read Janice’s story: From Overwhelmed to Hopeful: Janice’s Family Connections Story – SCIO Community Magazine
Sign up for Family Connections: Spinal Cord Injury Ontario | Family Connections
Learn about Spinal Cord injury Ontario Programs: https://www.sciontario.org/
