(This story is sponsored by Canuck Place.)

It can be easy to get caught up in the race. The rat race. The race against time. Deadlines. Rushing from one thing to the next. Always looking ahead.

But what if we stopped for a moment to embrace the here and now?

Father and daughter duo Paul and Jayda from Vancouver have a lot to teach us about savouring the time we share together. Jayda was born with lots of health challenges and was diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome, a congenital condition that affects many areas of the body. 

In the fight for her life, Jayda has gone through numerous surgeries and many hours in hospital, but her dad has remained positive.

“Being a single dad, it was just the two of us,” says Paul. “I had to do everything for my little girl to ensure that she was taken care of and that I was advocating for what she deserved. My mind never shut off. I was all Jayda had so I took a leave from my job to ensure that I was there 24/7 to make the most of every moment.” 

In 2004, Paul and Jayda were introduced to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, which provided a new community of care and support. At that time, Jayda was only given six months to live. But she continued to grow and today Jayda and Paul find new ways to savour life together with Canuck Place.

Paul and Jayda participate in Canuck Place recreation therapy activities, as well as the Canuck Place Adventure Race, which has an adaptive course for children like her. This special event raises critical funds for families like theirs.

Located at Jericho Beach Park, this family-friendly event has courses for all ages and fitness levels. And you can enter solo or as a relay team if you want to take part with your friends. This unique and scenic challenge features a 15-kilometre mountain bike ride, a six-kilometre run, and a thrilling obstacle course finish. While this race is recommended for those aged 12 and older, there is also a Kids Challenge for those aged six to 12, so that everyone can get involved!

And the best part? All proceeds from the event support more than 728 Canuck Place children with life-threatening illnesses and their families across B.C.

So get involved in a fun race that’s all about living life to the fullest and you can help families like Paul and Jayda discover new adventures with Canuck Place.

“Every day can be a challenge,” says Paul. “But with every challenge comes a reward.” 

Canuck Place Adventure Race takes place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday (September 16) at Jericho Beach Park East. For full details of the event or to register, go to the Canuck Place website.