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Christopher's Story: A New Chapter
At 34, Christopher is living a life that, just a few years ago, few would have imagined possible. Living in Hamilton, Chris’s journey has been one of deep personal growth, resilience, and transformation.
When Christopher first started using Karis services, everyday life had many challenges. New faces—whether staff, contractors in his home, or visitors—triggered anxiety, sometimes escalating into aggression and harmful behavior. Outings had to be carefully planned to avoid overwhelming situations. Even brief exposure to community events or new environments was off the table.
But change came—slowly, steadily, and with the support of a consistent, patient team and a devoted family. After months of staff better understanding Christopher's needs, and his own emotional growth, he began to open up to the world around him.
Today, Christopher is nearly unrecognizable from his past self. He plays on Hamilton’s Challenger Baseball team alongside his housemates. He attends events hosted by Karis, from barbecues to the annual Belongathon, and even enjoys outings to places like the Royal Botanical Gardens and the African Lion Safari.
Now, Christopher greets most days with a smile. People who knew him in earlier years are stunned by his progress—a testament to his resilience and capacity for change. His life today reflects his hard work and the support of his community, and a deeper sense of safety, belonging, and joy.
As we Celebrate Every Journey this anniversary year for Karis, we remember that change is always possible. With the right support and determination, a person’s life can be rewritten into something new.
