www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Friday, July 1, 2016 | 18 Jack Yeilding still turning lemons to lemonade by Julia Le Oakville Beaver Staff Jack Yeilding may be outgrowing his lemonade stand days, as the Oakville boy, who was known for hosting Jack's Lemonade Stand, is moving on to high school. Jack, who experienced severe epilepsy from a young age and founded Jack's Lemonade Stand as a fundraiser for SickKids Foundation, after building the stand with his dad, Dave Yeilding, recently graduated from Grade 8. He did so with the confidence to read aloud, explore area trails on his bike and participate in team sports. That wasn't always the case for the 13-year-old Oakville boy, who had several surgeries in 2010 to remove part of his brain to help stop seizures he's had since he was two years old. His mom Jodi Frers said his recovery, in part, involved relearning how to walk and talk. SickKids Hospital in Toronto suggested Jack attend the in-hospital school, however, his family opted to find a closer, local option in Oakville. They haven't regretted the decision, with Frers noting how much her son has grown in the four years he's attended Wildwood Academy, a school that specializes in private education and caters to students with special needs. About 60 students attend the Sheridan Garden Drive school and have individualized learning plans that allow each of them to work to their potential. | Oakville Beaver file photo | photo by Nikki Wesley Oakville Beaver At left, Jack Yeilding preparing for one of his early Jack's Lemonade Stand fundraisers for the SickKids Foundation. At right, Jack was presented with the Distinctive Achievement Award at the Wildwood Academy Grade 8 graduation ceremony June 15. Jack is pictured with his favourite teacher, Nathan Watton, and his award. "Throughout his time here, we've watched his confidence, determination and belief in himself grow," Frers said, adding it's been a special place for Jack, where he's felt safe and supported. "There's never been a day where he has said he doesn't want to go to school," she continued. "... despite his challenges, he walks into school every morning just knowing he's going to be completely accepted for who he is and whatever he wants to do, whatever his dreams are, the staff rally around him and are his biggest fans and cheerleaders." On June 14, Jack's family reflected on his time spent at Wildwood Academy as they watched him receive special recognition during his graduation ceremony. Jack received the Distinctive Achievement Award, given to a student who represents the school's values and has worked hard to overcome a tough set of circumstances to achieve success. Frers told the Oakville Beaver how overwhelmed she was with an immense sense of pride for her son's achievements. see Support on p.19 Authentic Montessori at its Best - For Ages 18 mo.-12 yrs. Delicious Daily Specials SUNDAY · An empowering curriculum that engages children · Individual focus to learning your child's $66 Family Feast for Four $2 off Cocktails & Large Coors Light Draught* MONDAY · Community atmosphere that makes students feel included and valued · Creative expression allows your child to explore their own interests and talents "Each space reflects the professionalism, pride and dedication of everyone in the school." -CCMA Accreditation Team TUESDAY $48 Couples Combo from 5pm-close $5 Reg Moretti Draught & $5 5oz wine $18 Pizza Combo ** WEDNESDAY THURSDAY $7 Apps, $8 Bellinis, $6 Moretti & Stella $1 off Bar-rail drinks from 3-6pm FRIDAY Alice Fazooli's Oakville 2015 Winston Park Dr. Oakville, L6H 6P5 *18 oz. **12 oz. Select wines. No substitutions. Some restrictions apply. Must be legal drinking age to enjoy offers on alcohol. Please enjoy responsibly. FAIRVIEW GLEN 905.634.0781 · fairviewglen.com MONTESSORI SCHOOL