This summer, two women from our Chilliwack Community Inclusion program experienced the joy of sailing at Jericho Beach—each in her own way, but both with radiant smiles that told the same story of courage, delight, and discovery.
Cassidy has been part of Chilliwack CI for seven years. Each summer she would watch her friends sail, her eyes following the boats gliding gracefully across the water. Though she longed to try, she had never been on the sailboats herself. This year, with her mom’s blessing, Cassidy finally set sail.
With great care, she was lifted from her wheelchair and gently placed into the boat alongside her support worker and a professional sailor. The day was perfect; blue skies, a warm breeze, and even a curious seal popping up nearby. Cassidy marveled at the tanker ships towering overhead and laughed as the sea breeze brushed her face.
For the entire hour she was on the water, her joy never dimmed.
When asked if she’d like to sail again next year, she smiled brightly and reached out to say yes. The answer was clear: sailing would become her new summer tradition.
For Nicole, who had just joined Chilliwack CI this year, the day began with a few nerves. The team reassured her that she would be safe with the professional sailor and reminded her of her independence and courage. With a deep breath, Nicole agreed to try.
The boat set out across Burrard Inlet, the sun shining and the breeze just right. Then came a splash; a wave soaked her clothes, and Nicole exclaimed, “Oh no! I need to go back and get changed.”
The sailor smiled and agreed to take her back, thinking her sailing time might be over. But on the way in, something shifted. Feeling the sun on her face and the thrill of the boat cutting through the waves, Nicole broke into a smile. “It’s just water,” she laughed. “It’ll dry. I want to keep sailing.”
And so she did—an hour of pure freedom, laughter, and pride in herself for embracing the adventure.
Two young women, two journeys, one shared experience: the freedom of the open water and the joy of trying something new. Cassidy and Nicole returned to Chilliwack with glowing smiles, already asking about next summer’s sailing trip. And we can’t wait to see them set sail again.
