Bonnie Woolfenden

He did it!

Sunday 31st May When we signed up for this challenge, it was a way to share the story of Steve’s stroke with friends we don't see often or have lost connection with.  It was overwhelming to hear from so many of you with messages, donations, offers of support and positive energy.  We heard from school friends, camp friends, hockey families, neighbours and colleagues. Some we lost touch with years ago.  It’s been amazing to learn the impact that Steve has had on so many people and hear stories of his loyalty, kindness, integrity, discipline and persistence. He has obviously made a positive impact on so many. Share

Activity tracker engaged

Tuesday 5th May We have set up activity trackers so you can follow our progress online (and I can see where Steve is when he goes rolling out on his own!). It was a beautiful morning before the predicted rain so the dogs and I walked with Steve for over a km, then he dropped us off on at home so he could head out on his own — and go at his own (much faster) speed.  He logged another 4+ km. Share

Even the dogs are supporting

Tuesday 5th May Share

🌟New Journey, Same Steve -- Stronger every step🌟

Monday 4th May

Many of you know our family as a busy, active group, but over the last several months, our world has shifted in ways we never expected. Today, I’m sharing a bit about that shift—and how we are moving forward, one step at a time.

The Road Behind Us

In early October 2025, Steve suffered a left-side ischemic stroke. The impact was significant, leaving him with right-sided hemiparesis (weakness), as well as expressive aphasia and apraxia. For those who haven’t seen us lately, this means Steve is using a wheelchair to get around for now and is working incredibly hard to recover.

Steve was hospitalized through November before moving into intensive inpatient rehab at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital (OTMH). After four long months of hospital life and tireless effort, he finally came home in early February.

The Power of Resilience

While the diagnosis was daunting, the story of the last six months hasn’t been one of defeat—it’s been one of awe-inspiring resilience.

Recovery from a stroke is rarely a straight line, but Steve’s motivation and drive have been nothing short of heroic. Supported by our family, friends, and an amazing team of healthcare professionals, Steve continues to meet—and surpass—every single recovery goal set for him. Whether in outpatient therapy or community-based rehab, he is proving every day that he is Stronger Every Step.

Walking for a Cause

To celebrate how far he’s come and to support others on this path, we are joining a fundraiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation this May. Our team, Steve’s Journey – Stronger Every Step, is committing to walking (or in Steve's case rolling)  1-km every single day of the month. Steve's personal goal is to complete this challenge in 2027, this time walking every day.

Our family is walking to honor Steve’s progress, to raise awareness, and to fund the research that helps survivors like him reclaim their lives.

Join Our Journey

Whether you’ve been by our side since October or are just hearing this news today, your support means the world to us. We’ll be sharing updates here as we hit the pavement throughout May.

Thank you for being part of Steve's "Woolf Pack" and for cheering him on as he continues to defy the odds.

With love and gratitude,

Bonnie, Colton, Katie, and Steve

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