Nic Mahon loved being outdoors.
Fishing was a favourite. He could spend hours by the water, enjoying the surroundings and hoping to land “the big one.” Whenever he had the chance, he also loved camping, hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor adventures.
He loved animals, too. His dads, David and Kevin, remember Nic as kind and generous, with an infectious smile and a determination to make the most of the opportunities that came his way.
Throughout his life, Nic also faced several medical diagnoses and health challenges. They were part of his life, but they didn’t stop him from seeking out new experiences, connecting with others, or taking on a challenge.
On March 20, 2024, Nic passed away unexpectedly at only 21 years old.
As David and Kevin looked for a way to honour their son, they thought about the things that had mattered to him and the experiences that had shaped his life. One of those experiences was Outward Bound Canada (OBC).
Finding adventure and connection at OBC
Nic participated in two OBC programs. On one course, he travelled with a group from Toronto to Rattlesnake Point, where he camped, hiked, and climbed. He later joined a winter dogsledding adventure in Algonquin Provincial Park, but that trip was cut short when provincial parks closed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The programs brought together many of the things Nic already loved about being outside, but David and Kevin remember that they offered something more. The small group environment helped Nic connect with other participants while giving him opportunities to challenge himself and try new things.
It was also a place where his individual needs could be accommodated without becoming the focus of his experience. Nic lived with celiac disease as well as other diagnoses, so feeling included mattered.
David and Kevin appreciated that his OBC experience focused on what Nic could do and contribute, while still providing the support he needed to participate. For them, that made OBC a natural place to turn when they began thinking about how they wanted to remember their son.
“We had seen firsthand the positive impact the experience had on him, and we wanted other young people, especially those who may face their own challenges, to have the same opportunity to feel included, supported, and empowered,” David said.
Creating Nic’s Bursary Fund
David and Kevin established Nic’s Bursary Fund to help more young people participate in Outward Bound Canada programs. The fund will help cover program costs for youth who might not otherwise have the opportunity to take part.
Part of the gift will also support celiac-friendly food options, something with a very personal connection to Nic and his family. Growing up with celiac disease meant Nic often encountered limited food options and a lack of understanding about what he could safely eat, particularly when he was away from home.
But more than anything, his dads say, Nic wanted to fit in.
“He didn’t want to be the one with the ‘special’ diet or feel left out because of something beyond his control,” David adds.
Having safe food available could make the difference between worrying about what he would be able to eat and simply being part of the experience.
David and Kevin hope that supporting celiac-friendly options through the fund will make it easier for other young people to participate fully in OBC programs, without their dietary needs making them feel separate from the rest of the group.
Keeping Nic’s story going
For David and Kevin, the fund is a way to give other young people some of the experiences that meant so much to their son. They hope it will give youth the chance to spend time in nature, try something they may never have thought they could do, connect with others, and come home knowing a little more about themselves and what they’re capable of.
They also hope people who hear Nic’s story will remember the way he approached his own life.
“If Nic’s story leaves readers with one lasting thought, we hope it’s this: life is rarely predictable, and everyone faces challenges that others may never see.”
Their message is to make the most of each day, be generous with your kindness, and keep going through the moments that challenge you.
“That’s how Nic lived, and it’s the legacy we hope lives on through him.”
Help carry Nic’s legacy forward
Make a donation to Nic’s Bursary Fund and help more young people access OBC programs.
To direct your gift to the fund, please write “Nic’s Bursary Fund” in the “Anything you’d like to share” box on the donation form.
Donate in Nic’s memory.
