September 9, 2025
Kalyn Falk was excited to see the 5K run back at the Free the Spirit Festival as it allows a way for her and her son to give back the organization that helped them at different times.
“St.Amant has been there for us in really extreme times in our life. Where we needed somebody and it has been St.Amant each time,” said Kalyn.
Noah was supported by St.Amant’s Autism Programs when he was younger and then three years ago St.Amant hosted Noah in their Stabilization Unit after he had a medical crisis. While being supported there, staff developed a special diet for him and changed the course of his life. Noah was able to leave and find a place to live where he’s happily spent the last few years.
It also led to St.Amant School teacher Dalip Shekhawat seeing how happy Noah was while running in the Buhler Gardens one day. Dalip reached out and asked if Noah would be interested in running the race at the Festival. Together they practiced the route and it reignited Noah’s love of long-distance running.
“Running is Noah’s joy. Noah has different sensory needs. He needs a lot of information in his body. After a couple kilometres his body loosens up, he’s calm he’s singing and laughing.”
It pushed Kalyn to become a runner as well, and they run a couple times a week together.
“Running helps us organizes our thoughts and emotions. We both feel we’ve accomplished something when we’re done, and we’ve shared an experience together.”
St.Amant has been there for the Falks at stressful times in their lives and they’re grateful for the services provided in those important moments.
“St.Amant has incredible services. They fill the gap for so many people. And they have so many different, exciting programs going on. They’re well worth our support,” said Kalyn. “I think the 5K at Free the Spirit, the vibe is fun, everyone is welcome. They’ve got the 2K walk as well. It’s just a really fun day.”
Join Noah, Kalyn, and hundreds of others at the Free the Spirit Festival on Saturday, September 20. Whether you run, walk, or cheer, your support makes a difference.
