The Kid With The Balloon: Why I’m Filling My Truck for Sandy Bay

Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan

As a photographer, I’ve spent years chasing the light across Saskatchewan. From the dancing curtains of the Aurora Borealis to the quiet beauty of the northern pines, I’ve always tried to capture the soul of the North. But as I prepare to return to Sandy Bay on June 8th to resume my role as a Primary Care Nurse, I’ve realized that sometimes the most important things to capture aren't seen through a lens—they are felt in the community.

The Reality Behind the Beauty

Recently, I received an update from Mahaila, a physical education teacher in Sandy Bay, that stopped me in my tracks.

In a community full of resilient, talented First Nations and Métis youth, the kids are currently trying to learn the game of pickleball. But because they lack the most basic equipment, they are practicing with balloons and old rackets.

It’s a makeshift solution that shows their incredible spirit, but it’s a symptom of a much larger problem.

The "Sharing" Heartbreak

The gear isn't the only thing missing. In Sandy Bay, many students don't own a pair of indoor gym shoes. When it’s time for gym class, kids are literally standing on the sidelines, waiting for a friend to finish their turn so they can borrow their sneakers just to step onto the floor.

Think about that for a second. In 2026, we have children who can't play because they don't have shoes that fit.

As a nurse, I see the direct link between physical activity and mental health. This isn’t just about a game; it’s about dignity. It’s about giving a kid the chance to run without waiting in line for a pair of borrowed shoes.

It’s about suicide prevention and providing a healthy outlet for stress—not just for the youth, but for the healthcare staff at the clinic who work tirelessly to support them.

A Mission Beyond the Clinic

I’ve applied for a $10,000 suicide prevention grant to help bring long-term resources to Sandy Bay. It’s a long shot, but I’m staying hopeful. In the meantime, I refuse to head north with an empty truck.

I am looking for the following donations in Regina before June 7th:

• Indoor Gym Runners: New or gently used sneakers (all youth and adult sizes).

• Pickleball Gear: Paddles, balls, and portable nets (even your "retired" gear is a treasure to us).

How You Can Join Me

I’m a former member of the Canadian Armed Forces and an RNAAP, but I’m also just a guy who believes in this community. If you have gear sitting in your closet, or if you’re a business that wants to help, please reach out.

I’ll be coordinating pick-ups all over Regina for the next few weeks.

Let’s make sure that when these kids step onto the court in June, they aren't holding balloons—and they aren't waiting for someone else’s shoes.

Contact me directly to arrange a drop-off or pick-up:

Email: dreerwinphoto@gmail.com

Direct Message: Facebook | Instagram

Thank you for being part of the story.

— Dre Erwin, RNAAP