Barrett Fitzsimmons died in 2019 from pediatric cancer at the age of 9, and Aiden Clark, 11, suffered fatal injuries in a school bus crash in 2023.
“We feel very blessed to share this event with the Fitzsimmons family,” said Danielle Clark, mother of Aiden Clark. “The holidays are extremely hard for us, but by participating in the toy drive, we are able to spread joy for other families and children.”
Brad Fitzsimmons, father of Barrett Fitzsimmons, said donating toys in honor of Barrett and Aiden allows the neighborhood and community to come together to brighten the spirits of people during Christmas and the holiday season.
“Some of the best times and memories we had as a family were at Christmas,” he said. “Also, some of the most difficult times we had were at Christmas.”
Fitzsimmons said the goal of this event is for the community to share support for both those who are less fortunate and those who are facing difficulties this holiday season.
Since the inception of the Christmas Lights Extravaganza and Toy Drive, the Foundation has collected more than 1,500 new toys that were donated to Dayton Children’s Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House.
“Our memories over Barrett’s life always point to the fact that he was really good at just being a kid,” said Fitzsimmons.
Fitzsimmons said items are needed for all ages, which could include things like board games, puzzles, Legos, crafting kits, LED lights, etc. Toys must be new, unwrapped and in original packaging. Toys without packaging, including stuffed animals, cannot be accepted.
Toy donations will be delivered to Dayton Children’s and the Ronald McDonald House. A donation bin will also be set up through Dec. 17 at 3453 Stoney Creek St., Springfield. Donations can also be shipped to this address.
Credit: Littleton & Rue Funeral Home
Credit: Littleton & Rue Funeral Home
Aiden Clark’s father Nathan said his family is honored to be a part of this event for the second year in a row.
“We are honored to be a part of something that helps others remember what Aiden was all about,” he said. “To live like Aiden, you have to put others first. Our lives have been focused on making kids happy, so this experience is perfect for us.”
Online donations can be made at this site.
This year’s event will feature Sweet Concessions and Whisk and Brew. Additional vendors will be available weather permitting.
“We continue Barrett’s fight so that hopefully we will see the day where cancer has a cure,” said Fitzsimmons. “Please drive slow and be patient. We look forward to everyone visiting.”
The Barrett Strong Foundation’s mission is to Knockout Pediatric Cancer. The Foundation continues Barrett’s fight in hopes to see the day when cancer has a cure.
The BSF has contributed $100,000 towards pediatric cancer research. In addition to pediatric cancer research, the BSF supports youth in Clark County through The Barrett Fitzsimmons Memorial Scholarship. Almost 70 students have been awarded, worth $76,250.
Follow the Barrett Strong Foundation on Facebook or at thebarrettstrongfoundation.org for the most recent information.
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