CREATING A LEGACY FOR FOR
A BEAUTIFUL SOUL

Making Waves for Autism was created in honor of our founder’s late cousin, Tyler, who passed away in August 2023.

A HEART & SOUL THAT WAS LARGER THAN LIFE
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Making Waves for Autism began as a way to honour one remarkable person: Tyler.
 
Tyler was a passionate advocate for autism awareness and a devoted father to Ryder, his vibrant, curious son who is on the spectrum. He dreamed of organizing a boxing fundraiser to support Autism Canada—something bold, high-energy, and deeply rooted in community. But before he could bring it to life, Tyler tragically passed away in 2023.
 
Those who knew him remember his unstoppable drive and energy. He believed that no family should feel alone in their autism journey. Making Waves for Autism was created to carry that spirit forward—taking his idea and reimagining it in a different way: through paddling.
 
It began in 2024 as one person paddling 365 kilometers in Tyler’s honour—and the results were extraordinary. With the help of generous donors across Canada, we raised nearly $46,000, allowing Autism Canada to launch its Community Assistance Program (CAP) months ahead of schedule.
 
CAP is already changing lives—helping families afford essential services that aren’t covered by provincial health plans. In a country where it can take up to four years to get a diagnosis, and where private assessments are often out of reach, CAP helps bridge the gap. It’s the kind of direct, immediate support Tyler would have championed.
 
But we’re just getting started.
 
In 2025, Making Waves is going national—inviting paddlers from across the country to take part in individual and team challenges throughout the month of May. We’re also working toward a powerful new goal: getting as many coaches and camp leaders as possible trained through Autism Canada’s nationally recognized Literacy Program.
 
This training equips coaches with the tools to better support neurodivergent youth—creating safer, more inclusive spaces for kids like Ryder to thrive.
 
Tyler may not have seen his original fundraiser come to life, but his legacy lives on in every stroke, every kilometer, and every child who feels seen and supported because of this movement.
 
He inspired it. You are helping carry it forward.
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​P.S. This year, we’ve created Tyler’s Crew—a special team within Making Waves for Autism for anyone who wants to honour Tyler’s legacy in a more personal way. Whether you knew him personally or simply believe in what he stood for, joining or donating to Tyler’s Crew is a meaningful way to keep his spirit alive and help us create lasting change.


If you prefer, you can still support the broader Making Waves for Autism campaign—but if Tyler’s story speaks to you, we’d be honoured to have you as part of his crew.

Donate IN TYLER'S HONOUR

A FATHER

Tyler responded to Ryder's autism with passion, energy and optimism.

A SKI PARTNER

Together, they were regular fixtures at Ripley's Aquarium, the ROM and the hills of Beaver Valley Ski Club. ​

A BEST BUD

Through Tyler's love, kindness and tenacity, he helped Ryder develop incredible knowledge and a happy, joyful approach to everything he does. ​