Markstay Public School celebrates spirited student on Wishbone Day

Avery Balcazar is one of a kind. The Grade 1 student at Markstay Public School has Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) which causes bones to break easily.

While the disease is very rare, Avery does not let it define who she is as a person. The spirited six-year-old has a deep understanding of Osteogenesis Imperfecta and wants others to be just as aware so they can support her journey.

Avery found a strong circle of care at Markstay Public School. On Wishbone Day, held on May 6, 2023, students and staff wore yellow to celebrate Avery and all those living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta.

To raise awareness, Avery produced a video that was shared with the school.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qOGKNE-L9bt_hrzFwN35AJcDcBey_r6P/view?usp=drivesdk

“All of the amazing staff at Markstay wore wishbone shirts with Team Avery across the back,” said proud mom Lynsey Balcazar. “Avery came home from school stating that it was the best day of her life. She felt like a celebrity.”

When Avery had surgery scheduled in mid-December, festive celebrations were moved up by a week so Avery could participate in all of the activities, including the Christmas Concert.

“Having surgery right before Christmas is scary for a 6-year-old,” said Balcazar. “These actions brought joy to Avery right up until surgery day.”

Avery’s mom said Osteogenesis Imperfecta is much more than broken bones. It results in body pain, fatigue and fear. In fact, it’s a daily fight.

She said Educational Assistant Michelle Roy has been a significant part of Avery’s success at school. “Michelle Roy has taken time to understand how Avery works,” said Balcazar.

“Avery is happy to go to school and is staying full days because Michelle gives her the support she needs.” She added: “The bond they have built is truly beautiful.”

Markstay Public School Principal Kate MacKenzie said the school is happy to support Avery. “Avery is a ray of sunshine,” she said. “She has taught us compassion, resilience and inclusion.”

Principal MacKenzie added: “Avery lets us know it’s OK to have OI. In the process, she models one of life’s greatest lessons: ‘It’s not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters’.”

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217.