A second 24h Tremblant for some of the 2021 Hero Families

A significant bond was forged between the families of the children heroes of the Charles-Bruneau Foundation during the 24h Tremblant 2021. A connection so strong that Laurent and Zoé’s families have decided to meet again this winter for a second edition. Two teams, one goal: to offer their time and energy to support other families like theirs.

Testimony of Mélissa Venne, Laurent’s mother. 

An impressive first edition 

“It’s impossible for me to sum up in a few words our experience as the family of a child hero of the 24h Tremblant. I could probably write a book on this event because it was so important to us. In all honesty, almost a year later, we are still on our little “mountain” of joy that the 24h offered us.

This wonderful weekend allowed us to add a chapter of happiness in our dark history of illness. And this chapter, it felt good! There was something magical about being there; a sense of strength, freedom, and self-transcendence vibrated in the air. We also felt like we were getting back to a normal life, and we forgot for a moment our reality of the moment.

Our family still remembers every encounter we had. I remember the tears and smiles on people’s faces when the youth were introduced. I remember the joy and pride we felt as parents to see our son being celebrated in this way, but also the smiles on the faces of his siblings who were put forward and deserved this moment as well. Illness is a family affair and to have it valued and considered by the organization is greatly appreciated. I can tell you that the feelings and energy we felt on that beautiful weekend are with us forever.”

Together since 

“During the 24h Tremblant, we naturally formed a special friendship with the other families of the young heroes. It must be said that we really understand each other, on a deep basis, even though our children do not have the same disease. It is inexplicable, this union that has been created.

These wonderful people that we met, we had the chance to see them again later in other events to benefit the Charles-Bruneau Foundation. We were able to keep in touch throughout the year.

With the families of Zoé, Arianne and Logan, we decided to create Heroes 2021 walking and skiing teams. Arianne’s and Logan’s were not able to join us in the end, but we will be able to do so in the years to come. We know that they have the same desire as we do: to get involved in the advancement of research, and to pay tribute to the superheroes and super stars who have left us too soon.

The distance between Zoé’s family and ours prevents us from organizing joint fundraisers, but we work together towards the same goal. On their side, for example, a big zumbathon is planned, as well as a country night. On ours, a virtual auction, for which we already have great prizes. We have a lot of ideas, which we are happy to share!”

A word to the Heroes 2022 

Photo: Gary Yee (garyphoto.ca)

“If I had one thing to say to the families being honored this year, it would be this: you are about to have one of the most beautiful experiences ever. You are going to meet some of the most incredible people and hear stories that are sure to touch you. You will experience moments that will leave a lasting impression on you.

Leave your embarrassment at home. Embrace this powerful wave of love. It’s amazing to see your child big on posters, or small on buttons worn by hundreds of people. Surprising that some people stop him to chat with him, or even with you. People are sincere, they are really interested in your family and take this challenge for you.

I won’t hide it from you; at first, we were overwhelmed, even embarrassed by all the gifts and attention our son and family were receiving. But we accepted and embraced it all with as much love as possible.

Be prepared to experience many, many emotions. And if you can, take Monday off; you will be exhausted with happiness.

Enjoy it, have fun and we look forward to meeting you.”

– Mélissa