The Groton community rallied together for the second annual fundraiser benefiting Seven Hills Pediatric Center, raising critical support for children with complex medical needs. The event brought together local residents, businesses, sponsors, volunteers, and community advocates for a day focused on generosity, compassion, and inclusion.
Hosted in Groton, Massachusetts, the fundraiser showcased the community's commitment to improving the lives of children served by Seven Hills. Guests enjoyed exceptional hospitality and dining from The Forge & Vine at The Groton Inn, while One Twenty Too Band provided live entertainment throughout the event.
Funds raised through community events help provide recreational programs, meaningful experiences, and community engagement opportunities for children living at Seven Hills Pediatric Center. These contributions enhance quality of life, promote inclusion, and create memorable experiences for residents and their families.
The continued support of the Groton community demonstrates the lasting impact local partnerships can have on children with complex medical and developmental needs.
Brendan Aylward, owner of Unified Health & Performance and Executive Director of AdaptX, has dedicated his career to expanding fitness opportunities for people with disabilities. Together with longtime friend Jacob Wyman, Brendan has completed more than 100 road races, including 5Ks, half marathons, and full marathons as members of Team Hoyt New England.
Inspired by the legacy of Rick and Dick Hoyt, the pair advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities in sports and recreation.
On August 1, Brendan and Jacob completed the TD Beach to Beacon 10K in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. During the race, they joined thousands of runners, including former NASA astronaut Suni Williams, highlighting how endurance sports can promote inclusion and empower athletes of all abilities.
Their accomplishment reflects a shared commitment to breaking barriers and creating a more inclusive fitness community.
Seven Hills Behavioral Health Services recently welcomed 25 psychiatry residents from the UMass Chan Medical School Psychiatry Residency Program for a hands-on educational experience focused on community-based behavioral health care.
The visit introduced future psychiatrists to innovative treatment approaches that support children, adolescents, and families in community settings.
Residents toured specialized therapeutic spaces, including a sensory room, movement room, and community garden. They learned how these environments contribute to holistic behavioral health treatment and improve patient outcomes.
The program also featured a mock family therapy session, providing practical insight into family-centered care and collaborative clinical practices.
The experience concluded with a discussion led by Dr. Diana Mujalli, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, emphasizing the connection between academic training and real-world behavioral health care. The partnership helps prepare the next generation of psychiatrists to better understand the needs of children, adolescents, families, and underserved communities.
At Seven Hills Adult Residential Services, person-centered support means helping individuals achieve meaningful life goals while honoring their unique identities and experiences. Staff recently celebrated an important milestone as Eevee officially changed her legal name and affirmed her gender identity after more than two years of dedication and perseverance.
Family members, caregivers, friends, and staff gathered to recognize the achievement with food, music, and heartfelt support.
Eevee's journey represents the importance of acceptance, dignity, and individualized support. By helping people pursue personal goals and express their authentic selves, Seven Hills fosters an environment where individuals can thrive and feel valued.
This celebration reflects Seven Hills' ongoing commitment to inclusion, self-determination, and empowering every person to live a life that reflects who they truly are.