I can’t help but feel particularly sad today.
The cadet program has done more for me as a person than I could possibly ever imagine. Since aging out, I’ve strived to give back to it whenever possible, and that always included going to Quadra for the summer. Not only was I able to see firsthand how this program benefits the youth that are part of it, I also got to reconnect with longtime friends and share in new experiences with them.
And due to the current pandemic, this will be the first summer in 14 years that I won’t be returning there.
As heartbroken as I am, I still completely understand the reasoning behind their decision to stand down; it’s simply unquestionable to put anyone’s health in danger like that. Having hundreds of cadets and staff over the course of the summer living and gathering in close quarters is a situation no one would, or should, be expected to take part in. And I take great pride in affiliating with an organization that will ensure the health and safety of those that are part of it, no matter what.
Does being upset make me selfish? Absolutely. And I have no problem whatsoever admitting that. But I’m also sad for the cadets that would have been selected to attend training having that experience taken away from them, particularly those that are aging out before next summer. That chance for them to make new lasting memories and friendships has vanished, and as someone that’s been able to do more tremendous things during my time in the program than I could count on both hands and both feet, I would feel gutted if any of those were to be ripped away. On this day 9 years ago, I was on international exchange in Australia, making friends that I still talk to regularly now. Had this happened then, I wouldn’t have had that opportunity.
No matter how this whole thing shakes out, whether we’re in this situation for another six months, a year, or (and I very sincerely hope not) longer, we’re in it together. Flattening the curve is significantly slowing the spread of COVID-19 and actions like this will only help crush it quicker. Just gotta work on staying positive and keeping occupied.
Stay safe, stay healthy, and wash yo damn hands
Cody Carter-Squire 