Proud Mom Moment
On June 9th, 2025, my son Jaden will cross the stage and graduate from Simon Fraser University (SFU) with a degree in Biological Sciences — and what a journey it’s been to get here.
Jaden was part of the high school graduating class of June 2020, with his final semester abruptly ending on March 15, 2020, when Alberta schools closed due to the COVID-19 lockdowns. Despite the upheaval and uncertainty, he stayed focused and steady. He began university that fall, which was entirely online, and was advised to take general electives while saving the more rigorous core science courses for when in-person learning resumed.
Then, in August 2021, just before starting another term of online classes, Jaden broke his tibia and fibula in a soccer match while going in for a clean slide tackle. The opposing player’s kick fractured his leg in two places — and yet, he powered through recovery and his second year of university with quiet strength.
In September 2022, he made another courageous leap — moving from our small Alberta community of Ardrossan to British Columbia, leaving behind the only home he’d ever known… and both his Mom and Dad. He moved into SFU dorms with his brother and had to adjust to a new province, a new school system, and a new life. Because of differences in academic recognition, he even had to retake several elective courses. And through it all — he never once complained.
Coming from a high school of 600 students to university classes with 300 students per course, Jaden not only adjusted — he thrived. He took every challenge in stride and built a life here with grace, grit, and quiet determination. He was named to the Dean’s List for his academic excellence.
And now, as he closes this chapter, he’s preparing for the next big one: Jaden is scheduled to write his MCAT in September 2025, with the dream of becoming a Sports Medicine Doctor — a perfect combination of his love for science and sport.
Jaden is intelligent, humble, kind, and one of the most resilient and compassionate humans I’ve ever known. He faces difficulty without drama, leads with heart, and brings integrity into every space he walks into. I am so deeply proud of him — words hardly do it justice. Watching him grow into the man he is today has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
Here’s to new beginnings, big dreams, and a future that’s just getting started.
From My Family to Yours
Life is full of transitions — and watching our children step into the next chapter is one of the most emotional and fulfilling ones of all. Whether it's a cross-country move for school, downsizing after graduation, or planting new roots closer to family, real estate is always about more than properties. It’s about people, purpose, and finding a place to belong.
If you're navigating a new chapter in your own story — I'd be honoured to help you find the right place to call home.
Tara Kennedy
REALTOR®, ABR, RENE, SRS
Phone: 236-992-8989
Website: TaraKennedy.ca
Email: TaraKennedySells@gmail.com
I believe every home has a story — and so does every family. This is ours.
Thanks for letting me share a personal piece of my journey. If you’re navigating your own transition, whether it’s a move for school, family, or fresh beginnings, I’d be honoured to help you find your next place to call home.