From Daunting to Unforgettable: Nathan’s GAMECHANGER Journey

Sometimes, a single opportunity can open doors to possibilities that once seemed out of reach. For years, Nathan’s mom had envisioned taking him to a football game, but because his behavioural struggles and anxiety related to autism, it made the thought of a crowded, noisy stadium daunting. However, when they learned about GAMECHANGERS - a Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN) program in partnership with the BC Lions, designed to create supportive environments for individuals and families with neurodiversity, everything changed.

"The program opened a door I wasn’t sure we’d ever be able to step through. What once seemed overwhelming suddenly became doable, knowing we would be surrounded by other parents and supported by the amazing PAFN team. With that comfort and encouragement, what once seemed impossible became reality,” Nathan’s mother, Vanessa shares.

During the 2023 season, Nathan and his mother attended their first-ever football game together, something she once thought might never be possible. And Nathan loved it.

“That first game with GAMECHANGERS was a turning point for him. It wasn’t just about seeing a football game; it was about discovering something new - a passion for live sports that quickly became part of Nathan’s world. He has since attended five BC Lions games and has already marked his calendar for more this fall, including the Grey Cup in November. His love for the team has only deepened; he proudly refers to the BC Lions as "his" team and cheers for them no matter the outcome.”

But the transformation didn’t stop there. What once caused Nathan anxiety - navigating the stadium, walking around the crowds - became something he embraced. At a recent game, he and his mom even completed a full loop around the stadium during halftime, something he would have been reluctant to do just months ago. They stopped by the PAFN section to say hello, and Nathan beamed with excitement when they remembered him from their earlier visit.

For Vanessa, this journey has been nothing short of remarkable. The opportunity provided by PAFN didn’t just give Nathan the chance to attend a football game - it unlocked new experiences and a newfound confidence. Now, attending games has become a regular part of Nathan’s life, something he looks forward to with excitement and pride.

In many ways, GAMECHANGERS did exactly what its name suggests: it changed the game for Nathan and his mom, transforming what once seemed impossible into a source of joy and empowerment. And as Nathan continues to cheer on "his" BC Lions, one thing is clear: this is only the beginning of an incredible journey.

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