In the spring of 1999, inspired by a Cornwall family who had also lost a child to SIDS and were doing something about it, we spoke with a few friends and asked if they would help us to organize a fundraiser for SIDS research within our community. The quick response to this was enthusiastic and from there, Keegan's Walk for SIDS evolved.

The Walk - An evening walk through the neighborhood and sometimes through the trails of the Ferguson Forest Centre with Keegan and his then five-year old brother Liam, was a nightly routine for us. Liam enjoyed showing off his baby brother and we enjoyed the family time. When considering what type of a fundraising event would appeal to the community while focusing on families with young children, we were reminded of what we did together as a family almost every night. Integrating a part of Keegan's life into the fundraiser a 2 KM and 5 KM route through the Ferguson Forest Centre was chosen. A pledge form was created so that people who wanted to help us raise funds for SIDS research could do so, and we encourage this type of participation. However, no registration and no minimum fee are charged to participate in the walk. To encourage pledge earner participation we give away prizes to the top pledge earners in each category.

The Family Fun Day - The community was a huge source of support when Keegan died. We wanted in some small way to give back to the community, while raising awareness for SIDS. As you will notice, the fun day activities include a variety of free or inexpensive entertainment for people of all ages. We wanted families to be able to come out, play together, learn about SIDS and have a good time.

Keegan's Walk Logo - This doll was Keegan's favorite toy. Its bright colors caught his eye and he giggled and cooed as we waved the little doll's arms in front of his face. It is a happy memory that we will never forget and wanted to share it with others. The wings and halo added to the doll are a symbol that his spirit lives on in our lives and in the lives of those that he touches. Keegan will always be our little angel and the doll carries a vibrant happy reminder of that. So, whenever you see this doll or the logo, remember we have hope for all future families and babies, and that some day an answer to SIDS will be found.

Emma's Hayride - Shortly after our first walk in 1999, another little member of our community was suddenly taken from her mom, grandparents and our community. Being brave, Emma's mom called me and since that day Emma's family, the Cote's, have joined us in the fight against SIDS. Each year, Marc and Janet Cote come out, and in their granddaughter's memory, place smiles on the faces of the countless children and adults alike as Marc pulls Emma's wagon with his antique tractor along the beautiful trails of the Ferguson Forest Centre.

We will remember with fondness our children and all children that have passed away due to SIDS. In their memory, we walk and search for answers so that some day families will feel secure and free from this threat.

For those that would like to participate in this event and cannot attend, please feel free to print a copy of the Keegan's Walk for SIDS pledge form, collect pledges and on September 30th walk for SIDS in your own community.  Mail the pledge forms and pledges to The North Grenville SIDS Affiliate Box 578, Kemptville, Ontario,
K0G 1J0 by September 15th. Or make an online donation through your paypal account .

GIVE EVERY CHILD THE BREATH OF HOPE! All proceeds from this event go to SIDS research & Education through the Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths http://www.sidscanada.org For more information on Keegan's Walk and the Breath of Hope Run, please email us at: keeganswalk@sympatico.ca Thank You for Your Support! Keegan’s Walk has raised over $60,000.00 since 1999.