Awareness Days

Vision Health Month is a time to focus on eye health and vision care, encouraging protective measures to protect and maintain healthy vision. Grandview Kids parent, Jessica, shares her family’s journey with their 3-year-old son Malcolm’s vision loss due to Septo-optic dysplasia (SOD). Though there is currently no known way to prevent SOD, early detection and treatment through therapy and support can help manage the symptoms.

Jessica and Mac have three sons, Keith, Theodore and Malcolm. When Jessica was pregnant with Malcolm, she had planned to have a home birth, but because he arrived well past his due date, they had to change their birth plan and have him at a hospital. This hiccup turned out to be a blessing in disguise. There were complications shortly after his birth as Malcolm’s body went into an adrenal crisis, his body temperature dropped, he was not feeding and his blood sugar was extremely low. They were admitted to the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for a few weeks and connected with SickKids Hospital to be seen by the endocrine and ophthalmology departments. Malcolm was diagnosed with SOD (also known as de Morsier syndrome). This rare congenital malformation is characterized by the underdevelopment of the optic nerve while in utero, leading to blindness, adrenal insufficiency, diabetes insipidus and hypothyroidism. Malcolm also has secondary diagnoses of infantile spasms, hemophilia A and Chiari Malformation.

“We were in denial for a long time with regards to his vision loss. Searching for answers or interventions that would give us some hope that he could see something,” Jessica recalls. “We feared what blindness meant for his already so complex life. Vision is a huge part of our enjoyment, and we placed that same expectation on Malcolm’s life.”

To keep up with the growing list of Malcolm’s medical complexities, his care team connected his parents to Grandview Kids’ Complex Care Program and began receiving therapies. “You don’t want to be part of the Complex Care Program,” Jessica admits, “But it has been lifesaving.” She credits the Complex Care Program for the smooth management and communication of Malcolm’s appointments, medical professionals and connections. The Complex Care team provided consistency, relieving the overwhelm brought on by what felt like endless new diagnoses and care teams. Now, through Grandview Kids, they interact with the same people who know everything about Malcolm. Rather than addressing issues in isolation, they approach Malcolm’s care holistically and family-centred.

Malcolm relies on his parents, siblings and medical professionals to guide him in his life. He will be four years old this year, and his parents are realizing now that he is not transitioning to a more independent life like most toddlers at his age. He is still very dependent on his parents and the people around him, although he tries to show independence in his decisions and likes and dislikes. Malcolm has a unique personality for a child who, on paper, has many things that he must fight against and work hard for. He communicates his wants and needs through facial expressions, cries, laughs or loud noises so people will know he needs attention. He is beginning to say a few words, recognizing how to call upon different family members when he wants them. Malcolm is learning to adapt to his environment, demonstrating excitement, interest or pleasure through rocking back and forth and showing disinterest by pushing away objects with his hands or baring his teeth.

As Jessica and Mac prepare for Malcolm’s transition to school, they are excited to know that he will attend Grandview School for Junior Kindergarten with a team who know and love him. Although it does not take away from the stress of a new season, they know he will receive the services, support and opportunities to thrive in and enjoy school.

Malcolm has taught his family invaluable life lessons. They have learned the importance of remaining present, enjoying their family now and not dwelling on the stress of milestones and what Malcolm’s future will look like. Jessica acknowledges that “[They] are so different as a family because of Malcolm.” Her sons’ report cards “scream empathy” as they demonstrate character development made possible only through lived experience. “They are always trying to understand and help others out and be their support systems. This is because of Malcolm.”

“Malcolm was born blind and doesn’t know a life with sight. His life is still so enriched with the sounds of his favourite songs, his dad signing bedtime prayers, the heat from the sun on his face, the wind blowing in his hair and the excited voices of his brothers. He has taught us to appreciate every little thing around us, not just the obvious visual things.”

When 25-year-old Janae is not studying, she professes her love of singing, going for walks and spending time with friends and family. She graduated from Toronto Metropolitan University, receiving a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree with distinction, and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work (MSW) with a focus on children and families at the University of Toronto. Janae’s studious disposition stems from her mom, Catherine’s, unwavering validation and her desire to support children and youth with physical, communication and developmental needs and their families. Her lived experience, although riddled with barriers paired with social challenges due to her exceptionalities, has compelled her to become an advocate for others.

Janae was born several weeks early and had a low birth weight but was otherwise deemed healthy enough to go home. However, in the two weeks that she was home, Catherine, a paediatric Registered Nurse at SickKids Hospital, noticed that Janae was not breathing or sucking appropriately. She brought her to a local hospital twice, only to be dismissed as suffering from postpartum depression. Intuition led her to visit SickKids Hospital, where Janae was admitted and diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD). A procedure called a “cardiac catheterization” revealed several heart defects and the need for heart surgery. However, post-procedure, Janae suffered a massive stroke. The initial prognosis was poor, prompting her physician to plainly state that Janae’s condition was “incompatible with life.” This life-altering experience was devastating for Catherine, who thoroughly understood the severity of her daughter’s condition with her medical background, but as a mom, felt it very hard to absorb.

Janae’s first six months of life were spent at SickKids Hospital. She had several heart repairs and required a temporary feeding tube and a pacemaker. Once stable enough to be home and out of their program, she received home care due to her medically fragile state. Janae received a secondary diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy (CP) as the stroke severely affected the function of her left side, along with her speech and sight. Eventually, her care was transitioned to Grandview Kids, where she would receive many years of Occupational Therapy (OT), Physiotherapy (PT), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) and care within the Botox ® Clinic.

With lots of hard work and determination from Janae and her family, Janae learned how to crawl, walk and talk at her own pace. Grandview Kids’ OT supported her by giving her tools to help with school. The stroke caused her left hand to be spastic and at one point they curved inwards and looked fisted. She used grips for pencils and equipment to keep her papers in place for writing, as she did not have the stability to hold them with her left hand. Janae described feelings in her left leg akin to “sleeping” or numbness. Her PT worked on improving Janae’s strength and mobility. In early childhood, she had splints in both hands and legs. She also received Botox ® injections for her left hand and leg, which she continues to do presently, for their effectiveness in reducing spasticity.

Every developmental stage brings on new challenges, but the biggest hurdle that Janae continues to face is the social aspect of life with exceptionalities. She required special support in school, but kids would question and tease her. “This made me feel very out of place due to the accommodations, but I was just trying to get to the same place everyone else was already at,” Janae admits. High school was harder and meaner when it came to her peers and teachers, who sometimes dismissed her accommodations as trying to get out of certain classes. She connected with another Grandview Kids youth and banded together against the negative social interactions they faced at school. She began to advocate for herself more, vocalizing her needs and requesting support letters from her Grandview Kids PT and Botox ® Clinic physician.

Catherine ensured that Janae participated in as many Grandview Kids programs as possible to enhance her independence. She attended programs that taught life skills like cooking, dressing and caring for herself, as well as those that provided information on maturing, puberty and body image.

“Grandview Kids tailored programs to where Janae was based on her capabilities, which is amazing to think that this process began over 20 years ago,” Catherine recalls fondly. “Other kids and youth in the classes had varying disabilities, so she didn’t feel singled out. I took every opportunity for Janae to see not only the negative piece of school but also encouraged her to see that other people were also dealing with challenges in life.”

Janae confesses that she sometimes still has doubts about her potential, but her mom is and always will be her biggest advocate. “My mom is always saying to do my best and that I’m able to achieve anything. It’s easy to self-doubt and focus on your disability when everyone sees the disability and not who I am. It has been a real struggle to be okay, but I’ve learned that that does not define me as a person,” she openly shares. Her mom has taught her to stop “putting herself in the box” and that she can “overcome the odds.” Janae acknowledges the need for a strong network and support system, as it influenced how she viewed herself as a black woman with a disability navigating life. Catherine’s constant affirmations prompt her to encourage others in their journeys and teach them about the importance of self-advocacy.

During the month of April, we observe Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month to recognize and support individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects brain development. Children and youth with autism may face challenges with social interactions, have difficulty making eye contact, exhibit repetitive behaviours and experience speech difficulties. Some may be non-verbal, while others may speak occasionally or lose the ability to speak after initially using words.

In recognition of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, family members of clients shared their experiences of being caregivers to children with autism.

Kaleb’s Story, written by Kaleb’s mom, Erika

My child’s autism diagnosis hasn’t just changed me, as a single mother, but everyone Kaleb and I are closest to. It has made us much more understanding and patient. Personally, I feel like I am so much stronger as a mother. Kaleb doesn’t just have an autism diagnosis but multiple diagnoses including serious mental health issues, and this has made me become such a strong advocate for him and any child with similar disabilities.

I celebrate autism every day, week, month and year! Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month means the world to me and my family. I am trying very hard every day to make sure Kaleb and every child with autism receive the proper help in school and the community. Sadly, autism is still fairly unknown, so the proper support systems are hard to come by locally. I try as much as possible to join any online groups and fundraisers whenever possible for autism awareness and acceptance.

Logan Story, written by Logan’s mom, Kayla

Logan’s Autism diagnosis flipped our entire world upside down, and in many ways, despite the struggles, for the better. I was on my way to becoming a 9-1-1 telecommunicator and was about to graduate college when it became increasingly obvious he was “peaking.” Our family doctor had pushed for assessments through Grandview Kids from an extraordinarily young age, and at the time, I was ignorant. With his delayed/missed milestones and speech coupled with increasingly intense tics at the age of two, we finally agreed to be assessed and got his diagnosis.

As a family, we have altered our lifestyle, including future and occupational goals, to focus on Logan’s functioning, education, seizures and other medical issues that have come as a result of comorbidity to his Autism. Regardless of the sacrifices and cons, this diagnosis has brought us so much knowledge and resources and provided a community for us to thrive and grow. Logan and I have met the kindest souls through Grandview Kids, including other children on the spectrum and parents navigating this disorder that we can relate to.

We will celebrate Autism Month by sharing posts and stories to spread awareness, wearing our coolest Autism merch and most importantly celebrating Logan’s 6th birthday on April 5th – which always feels like such a fitting month since learning of his Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis! Double celebration! This month to us is not only about awareness, but supporting the de-stigmatization of Autism as well. I hope that in spreading information and combatting misinformation we can further educate those that do not understand the spectrum and help enlighten parents of neurotypical children on how to teach their youths to be a supportive friend and ally to those with ASD and similar conditions. This month is not only celebratory but promotes education and, in turn, acceptance just by being noted and seen. This month creates a sense of togetherness and opacity in a diagnosis that can often feel lonely and invisible. “To be loved is to be seen” ❤️!!!

A drawing by Logan of the former
Grandview Kids headquarters.

As an “Autism Mom,” I try my best to spread awareness of the immense talents, abilities and positive traits of my own child and many other individuals on the spectrum. I believe there needs to be more focus on the pros and gifts that come with Autism, without dismissing that there are negative aspects too. I utilize word of mouth and social media to distribute helpful information. I also proudly wear my pins, jewelry and clothing not only to show my pride and support for my son and his community, but knowing someone may ask me about what I’m wearing and open the floor to meaningful discussion.

Molly’s Journey, written by Molly’s mom, Erin

In the first couple of years after our daughter’s diagnosis, we felt overwhelmed and lost, unsure of what the future would hold. But as time went on, we realized that the diagnosis wasn’t the big, bad monster —it was simply a part of who she is. That shift in perspective allowed us to focus on the small wins and everyday joys, appreciating life in a way we had not before. It also pushed me out of my comfort zone. As someone who is naturally shy, I had to learn to speak up, advocate and take things head-on. This journey has changed me in ways I never expected, making me stronger, more present and more grateful for each moment.

For Molly, celebrating Autism and Grandview Kids goes hand in hand. She loves hearing the story of her diagnosis and how she started at Grandview Kids, often looking through old pictures and her communication book to see how far she’s come. It’s a special way for us to reflect on her hard work and progress. We also try to change our outside lights to blue for April—though some years, life gets busy! Last year, Molly took the celebration into her own hands by asking her teacher to share her story with her class on World Autism Day. She even created her own slide deck, explaining her challenges and how Grandview Kids helped her learn to speak. Seeing her take pride in her journey is the best way we celebrate. Watching her stand up and speak for herself was such a proud, full-circle moment.

This month is a great reminder to keep awareness and acceptance front and centre. It’s important to keep the conversation going and support efforts that make a real difference. The more we talk about it and help others understand, the more accepting and inclusive the world becomes—not just this month, but all year round.

Like Molly, we focus on supporting Grandview Kids and sharing our story to help spread awareness of how they’ve made a difference in our family’s life. Over the years, we’ve participated in various events, with the most significant being our role as an Ambassador Family for the recently completed Believe Campaign. But awareness and acceptance also happen in the small, everyday moments—by being open and honest with family, friends, colleagues, neighbours and even acquaintances. We love to talk about Molly because she is such a unique, kind and funny person who brings us so much joy. We believe people learn best when they have a personal connection and feel comfortable asking questions, so we embrace those conversations whenever they arise.

Teagan & Logan’s Story, written by Teagan and Logan’s parents, Gregory & Kara

My children’s autism diagnosis has made us realize that as a family, no matter how many challenges life throws at us that we can get through everything if we work together. We are celebrating Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month by making sure that we are actively involved in the autism community through participation in social groups and attending events that cater to children with autism. This month is a chance to showcase all the amazing, unique and inspiring things that our children can do and have accomplished. We encourage our children to be part of groups, events and show people that despite their diagnosis, our children can enjoy and be active members of the community. We also share resources with other families to let them know what is available for their kids and encourage them to join.

Faith’s Journey, written by Faith’s mom, Sophia

Joining the autism club was not something I signed up for, but wow—what a journey it’s been! My daughter’s diagnosis has completely reshaped who I am, and honestly, I like this newer, better version of me. I have become more patient, kind and much less judgmental, and I am proud of the grace and joy I bring to tough situations now. The challenges? They are very real. But they have taught me to embrace life’s messiness and celebrate every little victory. It’s been a wild ride, and I would not trade the lessons or the love for anything. There is nothing I cannot get through now.

This month, I’m keeping the spirit of awareness and acceptance alive in so many ways. First by celebrating how far we have come as a family with a child on the spectrum. I’m reminding my team at work that it’s Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month and encouraging them to support activities or even join me in donating to amazing organizations like Grandview Kids or Autism Ontario. I’ll be guest-hosting an Autism Awareness Podcast with another family who has a son on the spectrum, which I’m really excited about. I’m also participating in a fundraising walk at Whitby Heydenshore Park. Beyond that, I’m making it a priority to keep the conversations going—sharing resources, stories and simple ways everyone can help create a more inclusive world. Every bit of effort makes a difference!

Autism Month is all about celebrating the amazing ways individuals with an autism diagnosis, like my daughter Faith, see and experience the world. It’s a chance to listen, learn and make sure everyone, including her, feels valued, included and safe to be her unique self, no matter how they think or communicate. In my community—like at my daughter’s school, with friends and at church—I use my experience as a mom of a thriving autistic daughter to share helpful tools and resources. This includes sharing programs like the Access 2 Card for participating venues like CNE and Wonderland, Autism Ontario sensory-friendly events, the Sunflower Program for airports and information on OAP funding. I love helping families discover opportunities that make a real difference for our kids and their caregivers.

Éamon’s Story, written by Éamon’s mom, Susan

Our son’s Autism has made us realize that you can never truly understand all that someone else is going through. He has helped us see the world in different and positive ways. The community that our son has built around himself just by virtue of his diagnosis has astounded us in their capacity for caring, understanding and support. Despite the stereotypes associated with being “different,” our son shows us every day not to underestimate his abilities.

As the youngest of five, I always admired my older siblings. However, it is my brother Mohsin who leaves the deepest impact on my life. When he was diagnosed with autism and pervasive developmental disorder as a child, I was too young to understand what that truly meant. All I knew was that Mohsin was different—not in a way that made him less, but in a way that made him uniquely himself. His love for music, especially singing, was unlike anything I had ever seen. And while his journey looked different from mine, one thing never changed: how much we loved him.

Being Mohsin’s sibling has shaped me in ways I never expected. It’s taught me patience, empathy and the importance of seeing people for who they truly are. Siblings often play a unique role, despite the fact we’re not always seen as caregivers, our influence can be profound. Through Mohsin, I’ve learned how to advocate, listen and celebrate the strengths in others, even when the world doesn’t always recognize them. His journey has inspired me to work in the field of mental health and advocacy, striving to create a world where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive and be valued for exactly who they are.

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, a time to recognize and support the autism community in meaningful ways. Awareness isn’t just about understanding autism; it’s about taking action. It means ensuring that spaces are accessible and equitable. Accessibility focuses on making sure people can physically enter a space or use a service, but equity goes further. It’s about providing the right support, resources, and opportunities so that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate and thrive.

This month, I’m focusing on sharing stories that highlight the strengths, challenges and experiences of individuals with autism, learning more about what it is and supporting local advocacy organizations in Durham Region. Beyond that, I want to encourage conversations that challenge stereotypes, promote meaningful inclusion, and recognize the value that neurodivergent individuals bring to our communities.

My brother Mohsin has taught me so much about resilience, joy and the power of unconditional love. His journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been full of growth, laughter and connection. Autism Awareness & Acceptance Month is a reminder that embracing diversity and practicing kindness should not be limited to one month, but something we work toward every day. By listening, learning and advocating for real change, we can build a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Anna is a Grandview Kids graduate diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a heart defect and was born without her right index finger due to banding syndrome in utero. Through careful blending of her life experiences, skills, education and beliefs, she has become a beacon of inspiration for all those who get to know her. Anna’s passion for the performing arts was instilled from a young age through formal dance, vocal and piano lessons. This led her to pursue secondary education in acting and media studies. She has built an impressive social media presence through content creation for cosplay, drama and advocating for individuals with disabilities. In 2023, she created a panel discussing the challenges of being autistic and a cosplayer and aims to present this informative seminar in as many conventions as possible.

Grandview Kids has been part of her whole family’s life since Anna was diagnosed with ASD at the age of seven. “Without my mom and Grandview Kids’ early intervention, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” Anna gratefully shares. She received speech-language pathology (SLP), occupational therapy (OT) and medical services to help support her limb difference. Her missing finger significantly impacts fine motor skills like grasp control which leads to difficulty performing daily activities such as using utensils, pencils and getting dressed. Grandview Kids connected Anna’s family with vendors to help provide her with specialized equipment, like a special computer with a circular mouse ball, to ease the burden of functionality. Anna is currently waiting to receive a prosthetic finger to make her everyday tasks easier.

Beyond the physical challenges, Anna professes that the hardest part of her disability is the social aspect. She faces discrimination due to people’s ignorance and/or curiosity. People stare and can be afraid and mean-spirited towards her, not wanting to interact because of her missing finger. Anna has even had difficulty with teachers treating her poorly by not considering her missing finger when grading her work in subjects like art and writing. Although Anna’s mom, April, lightheartedly admits that “she’s the best 9-fingered artist she’s ever met!” Bullying by other students and peers persists due to the lack of conversation about limb loss. She hopes a prosthetic finger will become a new avenue for greater engagement, shifting the dialogue from “ew” to “cool.” These social barriers have not left Anna feeling defeated. Rather, these interactions solidify her convictions to be a louder, stronger voice for others.

Anna’s tenacity is being recognized within her community. She was the 2025 Grandview Graduate “Spirit of Grandview Kids” award winner. Her nominator aptly describes Anna’s endeavours as “unwavering commitment,” as she “transform(s) her challenges into a catalyst for advocacy, striving to create a world where everyone has equal opportunities.”

Anna attests that raising disability awareness is important to her because she recognizes that anyone can become disabled at any point in life. “Anyone can lose their abilities and capabilities due to aging. Sometimes, home or workplace accidents occur and cause a disability or limb loss. People need to know that it’s not scary. So you shouldn’t be scared of people with limb differences,” she says. Anna encourages others to be empathetic. She notes that people should feel open to asking questions but quickly move on rather than make assumptions and focus solely on one aspect of a person’s identity.

In April, we acknowledge Hanuman Jayanti, Passover/Pesach, Vaisakhi, Tamil New Year, Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday. Read more about each holiday/celebration below, written by members of our Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Hanuman Jayanti: April 11

Hanuman Jayanti marks the celebration of Lord Hanuman’s birthday. The term “Jayanti” means “victory” and “in the end,” and it is observed on the full moon day in April. Celebrations vary across India, with many people visiting Hanuman temples to offer prayers and religious offerings, which may include mustard oil, coconut, betel leaf garlands, sindoor, hibiscus, jasmine or dhatura flowers, dhoop, sweets and hymns. For those unable to visit temples, reading about Lord Hanuman, reflecting on his qualities and remembering him is also considered meaningful. Lord Hanuman is revered for his role in the battle between good and evil and is celebrated as the supreme monkey god, known for his courage, strength and unwavering devotion to Lord Rama. Devotees seek blessings for power, wisdom and protection from evil forces.

Passover/Pesach: April 12

Passover, or Pesach, is a Jewish observance that commemorates the slavery of the Israelites in Egypt and their exodus to freedom. The celebration lasts for seven days and eight nights. A central part of the holiday is the Seder, a ritual meal held on the eve of Pesach, which serves as both a feast and an educational experience. During the Seder, the story of the Exodus is recounted, and ritual foods symbolic of the journey are shared, including:

Wine (four cups), symbolizing joy
Bitter herbs, representing the suffering of slavery
Green leafy vegetables, symbolizing the growth of spring and the continuity of the Jewish people
Matzah, unleavened bread that represents the poor bread of slaves

Throughout Passover, Jewish people are only permitted to eat unleavened bread, crackers and cookies.

Vaisakhi: April 14

Vaisakhi is a major festival celebrated by Sikhs worldwide, marking the birth of the Khalsa in 1699. This day holds deep religious significance, commemorating Guru Gobind Singh’s creation of the Khalsa, a collective body of initiated Sikhs. Vaisakhi also coincides with the start of the harvest season in Punjab, India, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the region.

On Vaisakhi, Sikhs gather for prayers, processions and community events at Gurdwaras. The day includes the singing of hymns, the reading of sacred scriptures and the sharing of langar, a community meal. Vaisakhi is a time for renewal of faith, celebrating unity and honouring the rich cultural traditions of the Sikh community.

Tamil New Year: April 14

Tamil New Year, is a vibrant celebration that marks the beginning of the Tamil solar calendar. Celebrated on April 14, it holds significant cultural and religious meaning for Tamils worldwide, symbolizing a fresh start and the renewal of life. The day is observed with prayers, family gatherings and special rituals, all aimed at welcoming the new year with positivity and hope for prosperity.

On Tamil New Year, families clean and decorate their homes, often with kolam (intricate rice powder designs) at the entrance. The day begins with a visit to the temple for prayers and offerings, seeking blessings for the year ahead. Traditional foods, including mango, neem and jaggery, are served to represent the bittersweetness of life, and festive feasts bring families together in celebration. It’s a time to reflect, embrace new beginnings and celebrate Tamil culture and heritage.

Good Friday: April 18

Good Friday is a Christian observance that commemorates the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. It is a solemn day marked by reflection and mourning, as it honours the sacrifice Jesus made for the salvation of humanity. Good Friday occurs on the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a key part of Holy Week celebrations. Christians around the world observe the day with prayer, church services and fasting, remembering the suffering and ultimate sacrifice of Jesus.

Easter Sunday: April 20

Easter is a significant and joyous Christian holiday that marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a cornerstone of the Christian faith. This holiday symbolizes hope and renewal. The roots of Easter can be traced to ancient pagan spring festivals, which celebrated the vernal equinox—a time when day and night are nearly equal in length. These festivals, filled with feasting, dancing and community gatherings welcomed the return of warmer weather.

Easter traditions vary widely across the Christian world. Common practices include sunrise services, where worshippers gather to witness the dawn, and late-night vigils of prayer and reflection. During these occasions, believers greet one another with the joyful Paschal greeting, “Christ has risen!” This tradition is observed by many Christian denominations, including Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational churches.

While Easter began as a religious observance of Christ’s resurrection, its meaning has expanded over time. Today, it is celebrated by both Christians and some non-Christians. Modern festivities often feature Easter parades, the Easter Bunny, chocolates and egg hunts, bringing families and communities together in joyful celebration.

Easter Monday: April 21

Easter Monday, the day after Easter Sunday, offers an opportunity for continued celebration. Historically, before the 19th century, the week following Easter Sunday was known as Easter Week, marked by multiple days of observance. Today, Easter Monday is mainly celebrated as a single day, but it remains an important part of many Christian traditions.

Acknowledging the significance of Easter Monday can deepen one’s appreciation of the Easter season. It provides a time for reflection on how the resurrection of Jesus impacts individual lives and those around them. While Easter Sunday focuses on the miraculous resurrection, Easter Monday encourages believers to extend their celebrations and engage meaningfully with their faith.

Across the globe, cultures have developed unique ways to observe Easter Monday. Some use the day for rest and reflection, while others participate in community events or church activities. Many also take advantage of the spring weather, enjoying outdoor activities following the solemnity of Lent and the joy of Easter Sunday.

By celebrating Easter Monday, Christians can carry the spirit of Easter Week into their daily lives, fostering joy, community and reflection that enrich their faith journey.