Small Spark: Inspirational Clothing That Helps

Oct 24, 2023

4 min read

Every time I wear this sweatshirt I get a million questions on where it’s from and how people can also buy one. This clothing line was inspired by my cousin’s daughter Robyn. I’ll let her do the explaining from here. To order please note the name, colour, size and quantity you would like and then email your order to Kristyn at kryde507@gmail.com.

Small Spark was inspired by my daughter Robyn. She was a tiny spark who ignited big changes. When Robyn was 7 weeks old, she was diagnosed with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS). CdLS can present on a wide spectrum, but developmental delays, intellectual disabilities and a variety of medical issues are relatively common. As much as I wish I had been the mother who took this diagnosis in stride – I wasn’t. Having a disabled daughter terrified me. It took a lot of research and conversations with other parents to realize that life with a disabled child – although at times very difficult – is also incredible, full of love and wonder.

As I came to see past Robyn’s diagnosis, I continued to educate myself and started to search out perspectives of those with disabilities as opposed to their parents. This is where things became truly eye-opening for me. For the first time in my life, I was made aware of the term ‘ableism’. Previously I had considered myself to be open-minded, empathetic and inclusive, but it became clear that I had internalized our societal beliefs that people with disabilities have less worth. I have spent a lot of time educating myself and trying to do better. I am still learning and make a lot of mistakes, but I am doing my best to raise awareness in the ways I can.

Unfortunately, Robyn passed away unexpectedly before her 2nd birthday due to Sudden Unexpected Death in Childhood (SUDC). Her death has been devastating. She was such a bright little soul and is loved so incredibly much. Despite our initial fears, this happy, bubbly, mischievous and altogether amazing little girl enriched our lives beyond anything we could have imagined. I couldn’t let the spark of change that she ignited in our lives go out, which led to the creation of Small Spark.

By sparking conversations around inclusion and ableism, I hope to make some small changes in the world. Maybe when another baby is diagnosed, that mother will be able to accept the incredible gift her child is without fear. Maybe a teacher will find ways to ensure her student is included in field trips instead of leaving them behind. Maybe our children can grow up in a world where we know that our differences are actually what make us normal.

Maybe we can make this world a little bit better. All it takes is a small spark. This is all for you Robyn. ❤

The Future is Inclusive Sweatshirt

$40 CAD + Shipping

The original design and best seller. Spark a conversation and promote inclusion in this comfy crew neck sweatshirt. Featuring a 3-end fleece fabric, it has a real tight-knit construction giving it better quality and durability.

All profits go to charities promoting inclusion and accessibility.

– 80% combed ringspun cotton, 20% polyester

– Regular fit

– Runs true to size

The Future is Inclusive Unisex Baseball Tee

$28 CAD + Shipping

Spark conversations about inclusion with this unisex 3/4 sleeve baseball tee. The collar is ribbed knitting for improved durability and sides have seams to provide structural support.

All profits go to charities promoting inclusion and accessibility.

– 52% Airlume combed and ringspun cotton 48% Polyester

– Extra Light Fabric

– Modern fit

***Fits slightly smaller than usual unisex sizing

The Future is Inclusive Unisex Adult Tee

$25 CAD + Shipping

Promote inclusion in this soft cotton tee. This classic unisex jersey short-sleeve tee fits like a well-loved favourite.

All profits go to charities promoting inclusion and accessibility.

-100% Airlume combed and ringspun cotton

– Light fabric

– Retail fit

***Unisex fit, size down for women’s sizing

The Future is Inclusive Kids Tee

$25 CAD + Shipping

Spark conversations around inclusion with kids in this T-shirt. Super soft fine jersey fabric compliments that playful innocence of this longer-length youth style tee.

All profits go to charities promoting inclusion and accessibility.

– 100% combed ringspun cotton

– Regular fit

– Runs true to size