Rod and Jennifer O'Brien
Superheroes. Monkey bars and climbing ropes. Soccer. Friends and family. Nathan O’Brien loved them all.
Since his murder in 2014 — alongside beloved grandparents Alvin and Kathy Liknes — Jennifer and Rod O’Brien have worked through their grief by honouring the memory of their extroverted five-year-old son.
The Nathan O’Brien Children’s Foundation last year opened Nathan’s Playground at Mayland Heights’ EvenStart Child Development Centre, which helps children from backgrounds of poverty and trauma.
“When we started the foundation, we looked at things Nathan loved — and he loved playgrounds,” says Jennifer.
The opening was special for youngest son Max, now five, to hear about Nathan, says Rod, while Luke, 15, absorbed the continued importance of giving back.
The family foundation, launched with an American businessman’s $1-million donation, has supported children’s charities with events from superhero sports decathlons and hockey games, while partnering with organizations such as KidzFirst and Stephen’s Backpacks.
One of Rod’s fondest memories is when Calgary Flames alumni battled Nathan’s Heroes (MLAs and police officers involved with the O’Brien investigation) in a 2015 hockey game.
“That changed the way people addressed us. Before it was with sadness, with sorrow on their faces. After the hockey game, they started smiling at us. It is easier to exist when there is that positive tone.”
Jennifer says the outpouring of love from the city in supporting the foundation’s work has helped her feel less alone.
"Grief is a hard thing. It can make you feel isolated. When I look back on the things the foundation has done and see our army of support, there is joy in knowing we are helping other children.
“My child is not here, my parents are not here and we can’t share this with those I love dearly. But this keeps their spirits alive.”
Foundation work continues, but the O’Briens, both back at their jobs, hope for a quieter 2018.
“We want a year of peace … and move forward,” says Rod.