There was sport. There was singing. There was dancing. There was plenty of cheering from the sidelines. And, of course, there was some serious competition.
On 28 August, close to 800 gogos gathered at the Hillcrest High School sports fields for the annual Gogo Olympics, hosted by the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust.
The day brought teams of gogos together to compete in a variety of events, from soccer to traditional games.
The morning began with a lively warm-up led by Hello Poppy’s Jess Naylor, which set the tone for a day filled with movement and fun.
Throughout the day, the gogos also had access to valuable health services and screenings, including HIV testing, breast health screening and other health checks. Meals, refreshments and treats were provided throughout the day, thanks to the generosity of the many sponsors and partners who helped make the event possible.
But perhaps our favourite part of the day couldn’t be measured, screened or put on a scoreboard.
It was in the laughter between friends. The spontaneous singing and dancing. The enthusiastic cheering for teammates. The hugs, encouragement and wonderful sense of belonging that seemed to ripple across the sports field.
At Hello Poppy, we talk a lot about the importance of joy, connection and community as we grow older, and on Friday, the gogos didn’t need anyone to show them any of these things. They showed us.
Hello Poppy was incredibly proud to play a part in this very special day.
A huge congratulations and thank you to the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust for continuing to create a space that celebrates the health, strength, dignity and contribution of older women. A special thank you to every sponsor, partner and volunteer who helped make the day possible.
And most of all, thank you the gogos for the sport, the singing, the laughter, the lessons and the joy. You reminded us once again that joy doesn’t retire.
