North Bay couple recognized for autism advocacy with Unsung Heroes award

Mark and Lesley Lyons from North Bay, Ontario, received the Rotary Club's Unsung Heroes Service Award for their advocacy for children with autism. Their efforts began after their son Jack was diagnosed with autism at age two. Following Jack's death in 2022, the Lyons have continued to support autism awareness through various initiatives, including fundraising events and the creation of the Jack Lyons Playground, a sensory space for children on the spectrum. The Rotary Club also honored three other individuals: Peggy Morrison for her work with Open Arms Café, Leo Deloyde for his volunteerism at the North Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, and Bryan Eade (posthumously) for his advocacy for marginalized individuals.