On Saturday, May 9th, at Wind-Del Community Park in Windham Centre, Ontario, something truly meaningful took place. The annual Epilepsy Awareness Baseball Tournament once again brought together families, friends, athletes, volunteers, and supporters for a day that was about far more than sport.
This event, hosted each year by Lisa Wheeler and Jeff Wheeler in memory of their son Tanner, has grown into a powerful tradition rooted in love, remembrance, and community support. What began as a way to honour Tanner’s life has become an annual gathering that continues to raise awareness for epilepsy and provide support to families impacted by the condition.
This year’s tournament welcomed 14 teams from across the region, creating a full day of competition, connection, and community spirit. Together, the event raised $5,700, which will go toward supporting families affected by epilepsy and Epilepsy South Central Ontario.
While the baseball brings people to the field, the meaning behind the day is what brings them back.
As Lisa Wheeler shared, “It’s not only about baseball. It’s about love, awareness, and remembrance.” Her words reflect what so many in attendance felt throughout the day — that every game played carries something deeper than runs and wins. It carries memory, purpose, and connection.
Lisa also expressed heartfelt gratitude for the continued support from the community year after year, sharing how important it is to see so many people stand behind the cause and help keep Tanner’s memory alive.
Jeff Wheeler reflected on how the tournament has continued to grow, saying, “We decided to go with a baseball tournament every year and every year it’s been a success.”
The importance of community connection was also echoed by supporters in attendance. Daniella Harrington shared, “Nothing beats getting together in person for events like this, especially with all the families, teams, fans, and community members here to support.” She added, “It’s important that people know we exist and that we’re here.”
From local sponsors including Day’s Variety, Brickwall Bakery, Yummy Freeze, Forever Summer, and the St. Williams Fire Department, to every volunteer who helped organize, run, and support the day, the impact of community involvement was visible everywhere. Their generosity and commitment continue to make this event possible year after year.
The tournament is more than an annual fundraiser — it is a reminder of what community looks like when people come together with a shared purpose. Every team that stepped onto the field, every raffle ticket purchased, every donation made, and every hour volunteered contributed to something far greater than the game itself.
Continuing Tanner’s Legacy
The tournament exists in memory of Tanner Wheeler, whose story continues to inspire awareness and support for epilepsy.
To learn more about Tanner’s journey and the purpose behind this ongoing fundraising effort, you can read his full story and visit the fundraising page here:
👉 https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/epilepsy-south-central-ontario/campaign/tanners-legacy–epilepsy-awareness–support-1/
This page is available year-round for those who wish to support the cause, whether they are able to attend the tournament or not. All contributions help continue the mission of raising epilepsy awareness and supporting families impacted by the condition.
A Community That Shows Up
The success of this year’s tournament is a reflection of a community that continues to show up — not just for a game, but for something that matters deeply to many families.
Through remembrance, awareness, and ongoing support, the Epilepsy Awareness Baseball Tournament continues to grow into something truly special. It stands as a promise kept each year: that Tanner is remembered, that families are supported, and that no one walks this journey alone.
