Voyageur Council Trail Guide -- November 17, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that the 72nd Ottawa Scout Group, alongside the broader Scouts Canada community, mourns the passing of Lara Reis at the age of 10 on November 13, 2023.

Lara joined Scouts Canada as a Beaver in March 2019 following her family's move from Brazil. Recalling a Cub activity in April 2022, her Scouters shared, "I remember Lara coming on a hike with us, so full of energy," after pandemic restrictions began to ease. Perhaps her interest in Scouting was inspired by her grandparents, who were active Scouters in Brazil. Despite being diagnosed with a terminal illness in May 2022, Lara exhibited immense courage and grace. Before her health declined further this summer, she had the opportunity to return to her native Brazil, where her mother shared that Lara enjoyed quality time “with close friends, family, good food, and great weather.”

 

Remarkably, even in the face of personal suffering, Lara initiated "Lara's Box" with her parents—a heartwarming project aimed at bringing joy to other children facing severe health challenges. Inspired by the generosity she’d experienced in Canada, this initiative involved assembling boxes filled with toys, hygiene items, and clothing tailored to different age groups and genders. Lara personally participated in arranging these boxes, which were then donated to two public hospitals in Brazil specializing in complex or rare pediatric diseases. Her efforts touched the lives of approximately 30 children, offering smiles and moments of happiness amid their struggles.

 

A service to celebrate Lara's life will be open to friends and colleagues on Sunday, November 19, at 3 pm at Paroisse Sainte Geneviève (825 Canterbury Avenue, Ottawa, K1G 3A2). In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that those wishing to offer condolences consider donating to CHEO (Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario) and/or the Roger Nielsen House—both organizations that provided invaluable support to Lara and her family during her journey.

 

Upon learning of Lara’s passing, the Voyageur Council Key 3 has already begun efforts to properly honor Lara’s legacy. Further details will be shared, and if you are interested in participating, please reach out to any member of the CK3.

 

Our most sincere condolences go out to Lara’s family, friends, caregivers, the 72nd Ottawa Scout Group, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

 

A GoFundMe page has also been set up at https://www.gofundme.com/f/laras-fight-with-brain-tumor which has more information on Lara.