A day that seemed destined for disappointment became 鈥榯he best birthday every鈥� for Declan Toner, who turned 10 0n March 31.
Declan and his family have already been self-isolating for three weeks as a precaution against the COVID-19 virus because they are an immune compromised household.
As Declan鈥檚 birthday approached it seemed the celebration would be anything but normal.
鈥淒eclan was extremely upset to not be able to have his double digit birthday party, as I鈥檓 sure every child is going through the same thing,鈥� said his mom Kendra.
Typical party plans were on hold but a group of Shuswap residents organized a special surprise for Declan. Family friends, neighbours and complete strangers who had organized on Facebook put on a parade in front of the Toners鈥� house with their cars.
Some of the vehicles that passed by with their horns honking were decorated with balloons and signs. Others brought presents.
The birthday parade was an uplifting experience for Declan.
鈥淚t was a surprise to him and once he saw those vehicles come down our street he collapsed to the ground and teared up,鈥� Kendra said.
鈥淥nce it was over he said to me 鈥榯hat was the best birthday ever; I didn鈥檛 know that many people cared about me.鈥�
Kendra said she and her family are very grateful for the birthday parade and planned to pay it forward by joining a parade for another boy turning 10 on April 2.
Like us on and follow us on
