For Ruby, Challenge 60 offered something far more meaningful than just an opportunity to get active - it became a bridge between memory and healing, between personal grief and a renewed commitment to the planet. When she first heard about the campaign, it instantly struck a chord. It reminded her of a beloved family tradition she had once shared with her husband, Darrell, and their son: turning off the lights during Earth Hour and spending the evening immersed in board games and candlelit jigsaw puzzles.
“For more than a decade, that was our thing,” Ruby shared. “It was simple, grounding, and full of joy.” But two years ago, everything changed. Darrell passed away from cancer, and with that, the tradition quietly faded. This year, though, something shifted. Ruby and her 20-year-old son decided it was time. “We wanted to revive that tradition in Darrell’s memory- to honour his love of life and his deep respect for nature.”
Ruby began her challenge by heading out for daily walks around her leafy neighbourhood. Sometimes, she embraced stillness and reflection along the way. Other times, her son would join her, and they’d bring along their playful puppy, Snoopy, for a run through the park. The goal wasn’t about distance or speed. “It was about being present, about being outdoors and alive,” she said.
As the days passed, something beautiful unfolded. Ruby found herself reconnecting with the natural world - pausing to notice new plants, tuning in to the chorus of birds overhead, even sparking a newfound interest in bird watching. But more than that, the walks became a space for something deeper: conversations with her son. “It drew us closer,” she said. “We’re still navigating the heartbreak of losing our rock - my husband, his father and best friend - but this experience helped us move into a gentler space together. We’re creating new memories, simple moments that bring joy and healing.”
Their walks opened the door to conversations Ruby had long hoped to have - about climate change, the state of the planet, and the future. “The media can make it so overwhelming, but out there on our walks, my son began asking questions. Real questions. And I was finally able to answer in a way that made sense for him.” Those conversations planted new seeds: her son is now eager to learn more and become involved in her work coaching STEMM leaders toward sustainable, regenerative leadership.
“This wasn’t just about fitness,” Ruby reflected. “It became part of my own regenerative journey, too.”
And to anyone thinking about joining Challenge 60 next year, Ruby has one heartfelt message: “Please do. Walk, run, garden - whatever brings you joy. You’ll feel part of something bigger. People in this country love their land. This is a simple, beautiful way to care for it. And the WWF team makes it so easy and fun. You’ll love it.”
