Meet Nolen, a Capes for Kids superhero. Each year ambassadors proudly wear their capes and inspire meaningful conversations about accessibility, inclusion, and creating a stigma-free world where everyone belongs. Our superheroes also generously share their stories, pose for photos, feature in ads, and join in so many festivities. We’re so excited for you to get to know them better.
Nolen is a Raptors superfan, with the encyclopedic knowledge of their stats to prove it! While he’s busy hoping his favourite team secures a playoff spot, Nolen is also carving out his own path and preparing to rally his community behind Capes for Kids.
Nolen is thrilled to be championing Holland Bloorview and spreading awareness about disability inclusion. Over the years Nolen has accessed many of the hospital’s programs and services. From feeding and speech therapy when we was younger, to rehabilitation after a broken femur, and more recently participating in the hypertonia clinic to improve his flexibility and strength from his CP, Nolen knows the power of Holland Bloorview.
Out of all of Nolen’s healthcare providers, his orthotist Neil Ready holds a particularly special place in his heart, since his orthotics and prosthetics help him most with his basketball game. His message for Neil: “Keep doing what you’re doing!”
So many people have had such a positive impact on Nolen’s life and helped him reach his goals. Which is why his dad wanted to create a special reminder from everyone who supports him.
“Last year for Christmas my dad got me a case of all of my memorabilia from growing up,” he shares. “My first shoes, orthotics, my first cape from Capes for Kids. Then my dad filled it with voice notes from people in my life who have helped me progress and reach my goals.”
“And I got one from American sports caster, Jack Armstrong, who says, “Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t do.” Nolen is so grateful for all the people who have supported him along the way. Especially the folks who have empowered him to know his power and the importance of advocating to eliminate disability stigma.
When asked about what he would want his superpower to be, Nolen’s wish reflects his practical nature: the ability to control time. This power would transform his morning routine from rushed to relaxed, allow him to savor those cherished A&W fries during lunch break, and just maybe it would give the Raptors a chance to score an extra basket.