A Path to Resilience

For Archer and his family, life has been anything but ordinary. Born with congenital Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) affecting his heart’s electrical signals, Archer’s journey has been defined by medical interventions, resilience, and a commitment to living life to the fullest. Despite multiple cardiac surgeries, a pacemaker, an internal defibrillator, and six resuscitations due to cardiac arrest, his parents have always worked to give him as normal a life as possible.

From the time he was just three days old, Archer’s condition required constant monitoring and emergency responses. At only five weeks old, he suffered a cardiac arrest, and his parents had to resuscitate him on the side of the road. Over the years, he has undergone seven cardiac surgeries—three of them open-heart—been hospitalized multiple times and battled infections that sidelined him for nearly a year. Archer’s dad, Sean, has been a pillar of strength, advocating for heart health awareness, fundraising, and even working to install nine defibrillators in their community.

“I taught CPR classes every year. When he went to school, I worked with the board to create a medical response plan, training the staff and making sure they had two defibrillators, just so Archer was able to go to school like any other kid,” says Sean.

But last summer, something incredible happened: Archer got to experience camp.

For the first time ever, Archer had the opportunity to stay overnight away from his parents. While this might seem like a small step for some, for Archer, it was a milestone of independence, adventure, and connection.

At camp, Archer thrived. He discovered a love for archery, bonded with new friends who understood his journey, and built relationships with counsellors who made every moment fun. Among his closest camp friends were Killian and Mason—kids who, like him, navigated life with serious medical conditions. It was the first time Archer felt truly connected to peers who shared similar experiences.

“It was really the first time Archer made some good friends. I think that was his favorite part because that’s what he talks about the most,” says Sean.

Archer’s camp experience extended beyond just a week of fun. His family continues to advocate for his independence and self-advocacy, which they see as crucial for his future. This year, Sean is taking on the Sporting Life 10K, running with a new goal in mind: to set an example for Archer, encouraging him to build his physical strength and confidence.

“I think self-efficacy is important and it’s hard for Archer to develop it when he’s constantly being monitored and managed. The overall goal is for adult Archer to have self-determination, independence, and to be able to manage his own condition. I want him to live a productive life, and camp lets him do that.”

For Archer, the impact of Campfire Circle is lasting. He keeps in touch with his camp friends and looks forward to another summer at Muskoka. The experience showed him—and his family—that despite their challenges, he can have adventures, build friendships, and carve out a future filled with possibility.

Because at camp, he’s not just a kid with a heart condition. He’s simply Archer.