Paralympic Gold Medalist Keynotes Children's Centre Gala

A Paralympic champion is returning home to share his golden story with a community that helps children overcome their own challenges every day.

Jon Thurston, who recently won gold in wheelchair curling at the Paralympic Games in Italy, will deliver the keynote address at Five Counties Children's Centre's 50th Annual Meeting on June 22 in Peterborough. The Dunsford resident plans to share his journey of resilience and perseverance with staff, families, and community partners gathered to celebrate the organization's milestone anniversary.

Five Counties first opened its doors in 1975 as a children's treatment centre serving Peterborough and surrounding areas. Over five decades, the organization has supported countless children and families facing developmental, physical, and communication challenges.

Thurston's address caps off a year of celebrations marking the Centre's 50 years of service. His message about lived experience and pushing through obstacles resonates deeply with an organization built on helping young people reach their full potential.

The gathering will also recognize everyday heroes in the community. CEO Scott Pepin will share updates on the Centre's recent achievements, while the High Five Community Awards will honor individuals and groups advancing inclusion across the region.

Why This Inspires

Sometimes the most powerful encouragement comes from those who've faced their own mountains and climbed them anyway. Thurston's Paralympic victory represents years of dedication, setbacks, and comebacks. His willingness to share that journey with families navigating their own challenges creates a bridge between elite achievement and everyday courage.

The Centre will also present its second annual Dave Adams Legacy Award, named for a former Executive Director who dedicated 27 years to the organization's Foundation. These recognitions remind us that progress happens because people show up, year after year, believing in possibility.

Long serving staff members will receive recognition too, highlighting the commitment it takes to walk alongside families through difficult seasons. Their steady presence matters as much as any single breakthrough moment.

As Five Counties looks back on 50 years and forward to the next chapter, Thurston's gold medal story offers the perfect reminder that with the right support, resilience, and determination, remarkable things become possible.