Rotary helps duo achieve potential

Rotary has helped two young people realise very different dreams – local lad Ewan and a young lady all the way from Canada. Ewan Cann overcame autism, Asperger’s and bullying at school to find his forte as a roller hockey player. With his natural talent, incredible hard work and support from his parents he has finally realised his dream of wearing an England strip and playing for his country. He was selected to play in the European Championships in Spain. Out of ten countries competing England came 8th (about where they expected). They could have elevated to 5th but narrowly lost to Italy 3-2. Then no score in the playoff against Switzerland for 7th or 8th but their opponents were first to score the golden goal in extra time. The team were devastated but held their heads up high. Ewan scored for England against Israel making his parents and Rotary very proud. Ewan and his mum will be visiting the club in October to tell members about his exciting experiences playing for England. His mum said: “A huge thank you to Ortons Rotary for the financial support that helped to make Ewan’ s dream come true.”

Elyse Latymer came to England from Ontario as part of Rotary’s New Generations Service Exchange programme. A qualified teacher, Elyse, now studying for a degree in nursing, was all set to go to New Zealand this summer when her placement unexpectedly fell through. Ortons Rotary stepped in, offering her a placement from July to September with local charity Little Miracles. In true Rotary fashion Lesley Ewen hosted her while she worked as a full time volunteer. We hear glowing reports of her contribution to the work at Little Miracles.

Elsye writes: “My time in Peterborough has been quite an adventure. I cannot thank Ortons Rotary Club enough for its support, especially at such short notice.”

Elyse was not sure what to expect at Little Miracles, but soon truly enjoyed and appreciated what this charity offers - a major support system for children with additional needs, disabilities and life limiting conditions, and their families. As a nursing student she found it valuable to gain perspective outside of hospital walls. Each family has unique challenges and stresses, making Little Miracles such an important space. Elyse helped with a variety of things from making lunches, to creating crafts/activities and going on field trips.

Elyse says: “I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to travel around England during my stay.” She spent an action packed day in London visiting the Houses of Parliament and the Tower where, of course, she took a selfie with a Beefeater! Welcomed as part of Lesley’s family she joined in their BBQ, visited Stratford and went to a festival in Sandwich. Elyse concludes: “I will truly miss England, such caring and supportive Rotarians, being with Lesley and friends I have met along the way.”