WODs for Wishes 2025

This is an annual event that Alchemy and I, Coach Craig, host in support of Make-A-Wish Canada. This event started many years ago as a fun group workout to support an important cause, and has evolved into a full-blown CrossFit competition.  

For those of you who may not know my story, I started this event in memory of my brother Jenner Latendresse who received a wish when he was diagnosed with liver cancer.  The wish brought some joy and light to an otherwise awful situation for our family.  My brother passed away at the age of 11, on June 10, 1997 - the day before my 9th birthday.  As a child it was hard to really understand the gravity of what was going on, but the one thing that has stayed with me for all these years was the positive impact the wish had on both my brother and our family. I cannot express how much this was needed at the time and how me and my family will forever be grateful.  

With his passing the day before my birthday it had always led to each birthday being a very depressing occasion for me (celebrating another year of life the day after the anniversary of him losing his life). One of my co-workers had the great idea one year of doing something to honour Jenner's memory, while allowing my birthday to be something that harbors more positive emotions by helping other children who are facing a situation similar to his.

Now we are many years into our annual charity event, and we have helped to grant many wishes and I personally cannot be happier with what our community has done. I am also very touched by all the stories our communities and members have shared with me regarding their personal struggles or loss and their desire to support our event & the Foundation based on their personal experiences.