2021 EN

PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES NEED YOUR HELP TODAY IN THIS TIME OF CRISIS.

GOOD NEWS Habilitas Foundation Newsletter • Spring 2020

These are unprecedented times for us all.

The challenges caused by this pandemic threaten the safety, development, and health of so many people with physical disabilities, who are blind or visually impaired, or deaf or hard of hearing in our community.

Your support for the Habilitas Foundation’s Covid-19 Emergency Fund will provide urgently-needed solutions to care for this fragile community through this crisis.

Your gift can help to: • Provide the tools for rehabilitation professionals to maintain therapies through innovation and technology, • Break down the barriers of loneliness which are exceptionally challenging in this crisis, • Ensure that physical and emotional needs of this population are looked after, • Sustain vital emergency services at rehabilitation centers.

INSIDE How donor support helps to disable physical disabilities at:

Ella (8) and Eytan (4), grateful clients who have benefited from the motor program at the MAB-Mackay for the last seven years.

You’ve shown you care for people living with physical disabilities through your compassionate past support of Habilitas Foundation.

Please help these people at their most vulnerable by supporting the COVID-19 Emergency Fund today.

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For more information, visit www.habilitas.ca/covid-19-emergency-fund.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

WHERE YOUR SUPPORT GOES

Welcome to the Foundation

3

A word from our Leadership

4

A young woman with real vision

5

Camp Massawippi makes lemonade from lemons

6

The Mackay Centre School, where smiles are made

7

Weathering the crisis with ingenuity, continuity and love

8-9

Remembering a true advocate for the blind community

10

A little help goes a long way

11

Communicating what matters!

12

The Action Centre tears down barriers

13

Paying it forward with a legacy

14

Helping disabled teens with the transition to adulthood

15

The former MAB-Mackay, Constance-Lethbridge and Camp Massawippi foundations are now stronger together as Habilitas.

Your valued support helps to empower and bring light into the lives of people whose eyes see darkness. To create a world where silence is no longer deafening. To help people move. To give children a voice so they can play with their friends, succeed at school, and share with their families. To open the world up to all people living with physical disabilities, one opportunity at a time.

The stories in the pages that follow show how the compassionate and generous support of our donors makes this possible. Changing the lives of real people, giving them hope and opportunities for a brighter future.

Thank you for your truly valuable support and for touching the lives of so many.

MAB-MACKAY ........................................... 78% CAMP MASSAWIPPI .......................... 12.5% RESEARCH ................................................. 6.5%

CONTACT US 7010 Sherbrooke Street West Montreal QC H4B 1R3 (514) 488-0043 info@habilitas.ca habilitas.ca Follow us on:

CONSTANCE-LETHBRIDGE ................ 2% COMMUNITY GROUPS ...........................1%

HELPING DISABLED TEENS WITH THE TRANSITION TO ADULTHOOD Adolescence is a time of great change. No longer children, teens strive to assert their independence from their parents as they wrestle with emotions of fitting in with friends. Learning to navigate new experiences and relationships helps to shape a young person’s identity.

For a teenager with a physical disability, this period can be very different.

19-year old Jason was born with cerebral palsy, a condition causing inability to control his legs and arms as well as difficulties with speech. He relies on a wheelchair or walker to get around. For Jason, many of the typical teenage experiences were simply out of reach.

In 2018, the MAB-Mackay launched its new “TranXition Program” for young people like Jason.

Adopting a non-traditional style to rehabilitation, TranXition uses a group approach to provide real-life experiences, exploration and exchange for young adults who’ve missed out on these opportunities due to their impairment.

“I learned to overcome and solve personal dilemmas and be more independent,” says Jason of his experience in TranXition. “The final step in the program was an adventure to another city.

Along with my friends in the program, each of whom had a different disability, we planned our own 4-day trip to Ottawa. From developing a budget, planning the bus and accommodations, picking the activities, ordering in restaurants, and packing our own luggage – we did it all.

We learned to advocate for ourselves and our disabilities, and to face unexpected situations that are part of real-life. Our therapists were there to help and guide us, but ultimately it came to us to apply the skills we learned and to make it happen.”

Jason is proud of all that he learned in TranXition, and was happy to show his parents his new-found independence. “One night, I surprised my family with supper, cooked from scratch. I planned a ‘taco night’ from start to finish, including finding a

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Jason at his internship at a high school library

way to get the ingredients, preparing, and serving the food. It felt great to prove to those who’ve taken care of me that I can do things that other teenagers can do!”

The generosity of Habilitas Foundation donors made this cutting-edge program a reality. “We really had to think out of the box when coming up with new ways to empower these young adults, some of who have visual, hearing or motor impairments,” explains Isabelle Cormier, program manager for TranXition. “From meetings outside regular hours to accommodate their schedules, to where to hold the activities, and how to support parents in their journey to gradually let go and discover what their child can accomplish on their own. TranXition is already showing real results, and we’re proud to help these youth explore their ability to better function in the adult world.” habilitas.ca | 15

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PAYING IT FORWARD WITH A LEGACY

WELCOME TO THE HABILITAS FOUNDATION

In 1996, during a visit to his ophthalmologist, Jerzy learned he had macular degeneration and that he would soon lose most of his vision. As an avid reader, this diagnosis was life-changing for Jerzy and his wife Jolanta.

Born out of the MAB-Mackay and ConstanceLethbridge foundations, Habilitas is a Montrealbased foundation that dreams of a world where physical disabilities are no longer disabling.

Arriving from Poland in 1967, Jerzy and Jolanta had big dreams for building a new life in Canada.

Over the years, they each achieved great success in their careers, Jerzy as a professor and Jolanta as a medical researcher.

Thanks to our loyal and longstanding donors, we are able to help our partners like the Lethbridge-Layton-Mackay Rehabilitation Centre, the Action Centre, the Mackay Centre/ Philip E. Layton Schools, Camp Massawippi, the Quebec Federation for the Blind and the

As with every other challenge in their lives, they faced Jerzy’s vision loss together. When they first arrived at the MAB-Mackay for support, they were distressed and concerned about how this condition would impact their lives.

Jolanta recalls how quickly they were made to feel at home and how impressed they were by the high level of professionalism of the staff. In Jolanta’s words, “we immediately felt that we were in good hands.” She remembers how it was the little things that made a big difference in her husband’s life, such as a walking cane for him to move around their home and outdoors, and a reading machine that allowed him to continue his passion for reading. Jolanta specifically remembers a little device that he would put in his cup when pouring hot water to know when it reached a certain level. “The smile on Jerzy’s face was priceless!” recalls Jolanta.

All of these tools gave her husband a renewed sense of confidence and autonomy.

After her husband’s passing in 2009, Jolanta never forgot the support, comfort and strength the MAB-Mackay gave to her and her late husband in their time of need. As a young girl, growing up in Poland, she witnessed the devastation and challenges experienced during the Second World War. It was in these early years that her mother taught her the value of helping others.

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When it came time to writing her Will, Jolanta wanted to give back and show recognition for the support Jerzy was given at the MAB. She wanted to ensure that others facing the challenge of vision loss would receive the same tremendous level of support as she and her late husband did at the MAB-Mackay. Jolanta continues to receive updates on programming, providing peace of mind for her decision to leave a planned gift.

If you are considering leaving a gift to the Habilitas Foundation, please reach out to me.

One sentence in your Will can make a Lifetime of difference and help ensure that future generations with physical disabilities receive the best of care. Ron De Paola at (514) 488-0043 ext.

1408 or ron.depaola@habilitas.ca.

Cheerio Club provide the best possible physical rehabilitation services to people of all ages living with physical disabilities.

Our name, Habilitas, is Latin for “ability.” It represents our goal of giving a person the means to develop maximum independence in their daily living. Guided by our core values of impact, stewardship and love, our mission is to maximize quality of life and help people realize their full potential.

THE JOURNEY TO HABILITAS The Mackay Centre is created to support Deaf children.

The Mackay Centre expands its services to include children living with physical impairments.

The Mackay Centre Foundation is founded to help Deaf and physically impaired children.

The ConstanceLethbridge Foundation is founded to enhance services for adults with motor impairments.

1937

1951

1978

1908 1869

The Montreal Association for the Blind (MAB) is founded by Philip E. Layton as a social club, Braille lending library, and sheltered workshop.

1916

ConstanceLethbridge Rehabilitation Centre is created to support adults with motor impairments.

1940

Mackay Centre Camp for Deaf and Crippled Children (later known as Camp Massawippi) opens for its first summer.

1969

The Montreal Association for the Blind (MAB) Foundation is founded to help those of all ages living with vision impairment.

The MAB-Mackay Foundation is formed from the merger of the Mackay and MAB Foundations.

The MABMackay and ConstanceLethbridge foundations merge.

2015 2007

The Alexandre Bilodeau Fund for Adapted Sports is launched to promote physical activity for children with disabilities

2019 2016

Creation of H a b i l i t a s , allowing us to expand our reach and have an even greater impact in the field of physical rehabilitation.

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A WORD FROM OUR LEADERSHIP

The first half of 2020 has been surreal, frightening, and destabilizing.

It has also been sobering, illuminating, and has pushed us to take stock and really focus on what is most important.

What we are learning from these incredible times is that the Habilitas Foundation is privileged to be part of a loving and robust caregiving network.

These last few months have shown us what we already knew; that our loyal donors are committed to our vision of a world where physical disabilities are no longer disabling. We have never needed you more than right now, and you are demonstrating unprecedented generosity and support. We can’t thank you enough.

Habilitas mission to provide the best physical rehabilitation in the province. We want to assure you that our Habilitas Foundation team will always proactively adapt to our ever-changing world and will continue to work diligently on behalf of our clients, their families, and caregivers.

This newsletter will offer you human stories on who we help and why. We hope it will bring you a sense of fulfillment that you have helped so many by being our supporter and friend. For that, we are truly grateful.

More than ever, it is so vitally important that we all look out for each other knowing that no gesture is too small, no smile too wide, and certainly no virtual hug too warm. Kindness knows no bounds.

We always knew that our healthcare partners were dedicated to their clients, but to witness their selfless focus and expertise during these challenging months, we could not be prouder to support them. We would like to express our admiration for and our gratitude to them as they continue to give so much of themselves, ensuring that the very vulnerable community of those living with physical impairments continues to be cared for and championed.

Kippy Wiegand Chair, Habilitas Foundation

In terms of our staff, the Habilitas team has proven to be as dedicated as ever but more importantly, adaptable. They have demonstrated their deep commitment, signature professionalism, and authentic passion for the

Theodora Brinckman, Executive Director, Habilitas Foundation

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Thank you for being a part of our Habilitas family.

Be well, stay safe.

THE ACTION CENTRE TEARS DOWN BARRIERS

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Audrey was enjoying a rewarding career in the United States as a nurse when she first began to experience difficulty with her coordination.

She was soon diagnosed with a condition called spinocerebellar ataxia, which would gradually rob her of her ability to walk, perform fine motor tasks such as eating and writing, and even affect her speech. A wheelchair would soon become her usual means of mobility.

Audrey returned home to Montreal to be with her family, and was introduced to the Action Centre by her social worker. “If it wasn’t for the Action Centre, I would be at home alone or at a shopping centre waiting for the day to end.”

As a former healthcare professional herself, Audrey understands the positive impact that the Action Centre has on the lives of those living with mild to extreme health-related disabilities.

Born out of the Constance-Lethbridge Rehabilitation Centre (part of the Habilitas family) in 1998, the Action Centre is the only bilingual day centre serving people with disabilities in Montreal. The centre helps keep its more than 170 members meaningfully engaged in society, challenged and productive. More importantly, it offers them hope and pride while building selfreliance and dignity.

Nestled in the city of Lasalle, its members commute from all over the city – many spending over two hours each way via adapted transport; proof of how meaningful their time spent here is.

Members are welcomed with broad smiles, hearty laughter, and infectious enthusiasm – all doused with a big wave of optimism.

With an exceptional array of active-learning and recreational opportunities, the Action Centre elevates the quality of life of its members,

decreasing the sense of isolation and depression this community is particularly vulnerable to.

More than 75% of the members live under the poverty line in government subsidized residences.

The time they spend at the Action Centre goes a long way to promoting their mental and physical health as well as providing valuable respite to their family members or caregivers.

The centre’s robust and varied daily menu of programming including artistic, educational, wellness, and leisure activities. The dynamic and caring team are impressively committed to caring for the members while bringing out their full potential, all with unwavering energy and compassion.

The important work of the Action Centre in tearing down the barriers of living with a physical disability makes it a natural fit for the Habilitas Foundation. As a result, Habilitas welcomed the Action Centre as its newest partner earlier this year. Together, we hope to maintain and expand the Action Centre’s contribution to the lives of so many like Audrey, for many years to come. habilitas.ca | 13

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A YOUNG WOMAN WITH REAL VISION

COMMUNICATING WHAT MATTERS! Hearing parents of deaf or hearing impaired children face unique challenges and concerns.

Worries about how to bond and communicate with their child, as well as how to overcome the barriers to their development, are among the first concerns.

Despite advances in hearing technology (such as hearing aids and cochlear implants), the reality is that these children will remain deaf, even though most may become oral communicators. For more than 150 years, the MAB-Mackay has helped children with hearing impairments to develop the skills to become independent and participate fully in society. One of the key tools taught at the centre is American Sign Language, or ASL. “The MAB-Mackay is the only institution in Quebec to offers ASL instruction,” explains Brenda, ASL specialist at the centre. “Our specialized courses that we offer to all ages range from basic knowledge to advanced signing. Like me, many of our instructors are deaf, ensuring immersion into the culture which is intimately connected to the language.

“Many parents have expressed a desire to learn basic signing with their child. So we created a weekly ASL Family Group. Involving the entire family provides not only a special bonding experience, but also helps the child and family progress and reach important milestones quicker.”

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life,” says Elizabeth, a Special Educator who coanimates the group. “We introduce terms that can be used in their regular communication, such as foods, toys, basic requests, and routines that are relevant to each family. For example, the signs for a toddler who is potty-training may be less appropriate for a school-aged child. They practice their signing at home, which contributes to the family dynamic and accelerates the child’s learning.

We’ve seen very positive results so far!”

Honney recently joined the group with her eightyear old daughter who is deaf. “I didn't know anything about ASL before, and now we can communicate together. My daughter is less shy and much more expressive now with her thoughts and needs, and I can understand and respond. She asks me to play with her, or read a book together, and tells me what she wants to wear. As a mother, this means so much to me.”

Meeting other parents raising deaf children, with whom she shared insights and experiences, also helped Honney. “I now feel less alone. Seeing other parents practice their signing gives me strength.

The group has really changed our lives!”

It’s through the generous support of Habilitas Foundation donors that creative new programs like this are made possible – helping to give quality of life and strengthening families of people with physical and sensory disabilities.

I first met Maryam when she joined the Professional Communication and Networking course I was teaching at McGill University. Her presence in class was like a breath of fresh air and she quickly won the respect and hearts of her fellow students due to her positive spirit and, most importantly, inquisitive mind. She would often be one of the first to raise her hand to ask questions, offer insights, or volunteer for a task.

Maryam, who is very open about her blindness, told me that she began losing her sight in 2011 due to a genetic disorder and was declared legally blind in 2017. What amazed me from early on was that I sometimes forgot that she was not sighted, as she never expected special favours because of it. She simply faced the challenges that came her way and found a way to deal with them. It was evident to me that she only wished to be treated “normally.”

I didn’t know that many details of Maryam’s journey until she shared them with students and guests at a networking event organized by my students. This was by no means an easy feat for her, as she had told me she was terrified about speaking in front of a crowd even though her dream was to become a professional public speaker one day. That secret prompted me to help give her what she wished for.

I challenged Maryam to confront her fears and showed her the skills she would need, while slowly but surely boosting confidence in her abilities. She accepted the challenge and not only spoke superbly during her class practice assignments, but wowed audiences in other McGill classes and several large off-campus events.

Maryam practiced and practiced to deliver her presentations without notes or her white cane,

Maryam learning white cane skills

while moving about the room as if she were sighted. Guests who hadn’t met her before had no idea that she was blind until well into her story, which she shared with grace and humour, occasionally sprinkling it with uplifting words in one of the five languages she speaks fluently.

If I were to sum up Maryam in one word, it would be “inspiration.” She is, without a doubt, a joyful, other-centred young lady who lives her life to the fullest daily in spite of the fact that she’s legally blind, which does not define her, but rather serves to accentuate her personal story.

Today, Maryam is pursuing the McGill Diploma in Entrepreneurship, while volunteering at Habilitas Foundation, where she’s designing and organizing the Jump Rope for Hope fundraising activity, to give back to the MAB-Mackay and help them support young people with visual impairments.

Brendan Walsh Lecturer, Business Communication and Writing McGill University

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CAMP MASSAWIPPI MAKES LEMONADE FROM LEMONS As the days grow warmer and the end of the school year beckons, Cédric knows his favorite time of year is not far away. For five summers so far, Cédric spends an amazing week at Camp Massawippi, enjoying so many activities that are usually out of reach for this special 17-year old.

Cédric was born with cerebral palsy. He gets about with his wheelchair, is non-verbal, and has an intellectual delay. “He absolutely loves his time at Camp Massawippi,” explains his mother Lise.

“It’s an extraordinary place where young people like Cédric can interact with nature, make friends, sing by the fire and try out nautical sports. He’s living summer at its fullest!”

Since 1951, Camp Massawippi has offered an unparalleled camp experience to young people who are mobility disabled, blind or visually impaired, deaf or hearing impaired, or with intellectual disabilities. The magical setting on the banks of majestic Lake Massawippi in the Eastern Townships features a fully accessible amenities and adapted activities, as well as an up to one-toone ratio of counsellor to campers.

This summer, the beach, auditorium and playing fields of camp will be unusually silent. “Due to the health care crisis, we must take a necessary pause in camp operations,” explains Jed Richman, Interim Director of Camp. “We’ll be continuing to nurture the important link between campers and their camp, their friends and staff. We’re proud to

A LITTLE HELP GOES A LONG WAY

Camp Massawippi

be putting together a virtual camp, with a variety of adapted online activities – both live streaming and in video capsules.

“Among the activities will be adapted dance, animated by Luca “Lazylegz” Patuelli, an inspiration and role model to all the campers for many years. He has a unique way of getting all campers, irrespective of their limitations, to express themselves through movement. We’ll also have another familiar face recognized by all – Virgo from the dining hall, who’ll be offering recipe and cooking activities,” says Jed. “We’ll also share with them our plans to use this time to repair, renovate, rebuild, and revitalize camp for when they can return next year.”

Accessibility is a key factor in the success of this virtual camp. “We have to consider how best to accommodate the communication challenges of all our campers, many of who use sign language, are visually impaired, or are non-verbal. Luckily, they are very proficient in Zoom and other online platforms we’ll be using,” explains Jed. “We recognize that for our campers, we are much more than just a camp. We are a window out of their confinement, which has been particularly difficult during the recent months.”

Thanks to our generous supporters and our partnership with Habilitas Foundation, Camp Massawippi will still be an important part of the summer for our campers.

It was almost two years ago that Salome’s life was turned upside down. She was working as a math and science tutor at a local high school and raising her teenage children, when the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis became intolerable.

“I began to have trouble doing things like combing my hair or getting into the shower. I couldn’t prepare meals for my family, and I had to stop working too,” recalls Salome. “Being dependent on others for so many of the everyday things was extremely difficult. I’m so grateful to the Constance-Lethbridge Rehabilitation Centre for helping to find solutions that really changed my life.”

Each year, the Constance-Lethbridge helps hundreds of people with conditions including traumatic brain injury, stroke, or rheumatoid arthritis. Through a variety of different therapies, the centre supports them on their journey to learn the skills to recover motor function, manage their energy level, and regain their autonomy.

As a result of their condition however, many have reduced their work hours, taken a leave of absence, or stopped work altogether. They often find themselves in a tenuous situation where they are unable to afford basic tools that are essential to their daily living or domestic management. Even simple aids that enhance mobility or posture, help manage pain, or ensure basic safety can be unaffordable.

That’s where the Assistance Fund comes in.

“I was provided with aids that have made a big difference, such as braces for my wrist to prevent my joints from moving,” says Salome. “I received a chair and long-handled brush so I don’t need help from my children when I shower. I have a special handle for my toothbrush and pens, and a device to help me work in the kitchen.”

Campers participate in the adapted dance program

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Using an adapted peeler allows Salome to have more independence in the kitchen.

“I now have a big part of my independence back, and I’m so grateful. What a relief now to know I can take care of my children, prepare meals, and do my paperwork again.”

The Assistance Fund is made possible through the generosity of Habilitas Foundation donors.

Occupational therapist Thuy-Lan has seen for herself how helpful the fund has proven. “By providing financially vulnerable individuals with subsidies for technical aids and equipment, the fund improves quality of life and gives people back their dignity,” explains Thuy-Lan. “It’s amazing to see how even the smallest item can make such a difference in someone’s autonomy and give them confidence to accomplish what they need to in a day.” habilitas.ca | 11

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REMEMBERING A TRUE ADVOCATE FOR THE BLIND COMMUNITY

“As I waved goodbye to Maurice’s school bus for his first day of pre-kindergarten, my heart sank,” remembers Line. “It was the first time that my son had been away from me for such a long time.

I spent the entire day worrying, wondering if I’d made the right decision.”

Alan Dean is recognized for advocating for those with vision loss, and admired for giving back in spite of adversity.

When Alan’s life was upended by going blind in 1997, he came to the MAB (the Montreal Association for Blind, later known as the MABMackay) with the hopes that the centre would change his life. He didn’t expect that he would be the one changing the lives of so many others in the process as well.

Alan was enjoying a successful career in the transportation industry when his vision began to gradually deteriorate. Then one morning, he woke up to realize he had lost his sight completely due to a retinal hemorrhage. Determined to maintain his quality of life, Alan turned to the MAB to help him preserve his independence and enjoy the hobbies that gave his life meaning.

Alan learned how to use a white cane so he could get around safely. He studied Braille, which he used first as a means to label the CD’s in his vast classical music collection and later, to read.

Computer technology was another area of focus, allowing him to keep close to his friends and family and stay connected to the world.

With these skills, Alan was able to pursue his favorite pastimes while exploring new channels for his boundless energy. Instead of letting go of his lifelong passion for stamp collecting, Alan became president of his community stamp club.

He became active in a self-help association for people with low vision, actively raising funds and organizing trips for members.

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THE MACKAY CENTRE SCHOOL, WHERE SMILES ARE MADE

Alan with his guide, Mary-Ann, at the golf tournament

Alan also gave back to the MAB, entertaining at the seniors’ residence for visually impaired in NDG each week by playing piano and telling stories. He was a regular at the MAB Foundation’s charity golf tournament, where he officiated the “best ball” contest at the gala dinner. Alan was also instrumental in the creation of Canada’s first Braille postage stamp, which was unveiled on the MAB’s 100th anniversary in 2008. This was a particularly proud achievement for Alan, as it brought together two of the areas of his life that he was passionate about.

Alan’s devoted wife Norma was a constant source of support. She attended all of his appointments at the MAB, and even learned sighted guide techniques to better assist and support him.

Beyond these many pursuits, Alan is remembered for his kind heart. He was admired for his drive and ability to lift the spirits of others, even when he was going through his own difficult moments.

He was famous for his unique style of telling jokes, and recognized for advocating effectively for those with vision loss.

Although Alan succumbed to health issues in January, he leaves with us a proud legacy and message of inspiration. Our foundation affectionately celebrates Alan’s achievements and the many lives he touched.

specialized educators, personal attendants, orientation and mobility specialists, nurses, and a music therapist. We have an on-site wheelchair clinic, as well as technicians who specialize in technology like eye gaze devices with voice-output to help non-verbal children communicate.”

Five-year old Maurice was born with cerebral palsy, a condition that affects the coordination in his hands and legs. He’s unable to express himself verbally, and uses a wheelchair to get around.

“Maurice started coming to the MAB-Mackay before he was two. I would bring him many times a week for therapy sessions to promote his movement and communication skills. There’s no cure for his condition, but I’m so happy with the amazing progress he’s made,” explains Line.

“We soon started to think about Maurice’s options for school. Our therapists encouraged us to visit the Mackay Centre School, and we immediately knew this was the right place for him.”

The Mackay Centre School offers a safe, caring environment that empowers children to achieve their potential with a curriculum that is responsive to their needs. Operated in partnership with the English Montreal School Board and the MAB-Mackay, it offers a seamless marriage between education and physical rehabilitation that is one of a kind.

The specialized school serves 120 children from pre-kindergarten to Grade 6 with motor impairments, hearing loss and deafness, as well as communication disorders that affect their ability to process speech.

“We have all the resources to support the children both inside the classroom and in their therapies,” explains Alison Leduc, manager of the rehabilitation team in the school.” Our staff includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists,

In fall 2018, the school moved into a new state-of-art building complete with adapted classrooms, therapy rooms of all sizes, a multisensory room, nursing stations and an adapted pool. “The children are so fortunate to have this amazing new facility to learn and grow in,” says Alison. “We’re grateful to the wonderful donors of Habilitas Foundation for funding important technology and tools, enhancing the care and therapy we give the children every day.”

The smile on Maurice’s face when he comes home from school is proof enough for his mother. “He has a great time at school, and works hard in the classroom as well as in his rehab therapies,” says Line. “He’s learned to control his head movement to express ‘yes’ and ‘no,’ and next they’re teaching him how to steer a motorized wheelchair with his head. They’re really giving my little Maurice the chance to shine and be all that he can be, for which I couldn’t be more proud and grateful.”

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WEATHERING THE CRISIS WITH INGENUITY, CONTINUITY AND LOVE

Since the quarantine, 4-year old Charley really misses her friends from daycare. She also can’t see her grandmother, which she finds really difficult. Not being able to see her therapists at the MAB-Mackay also makes her sad.

“I didn’t realize how important the centre is for Charley until we had to stop going due to the current crisis,” explains Jennifer, Charley’s mother.

“She asked why we’re not going any more for therapy, and I explained that it’s to protect the safety of her therapists who have to work with other children too.”

to serve their clients – many of whom are even more vulnerable in this era of isolation.

Since the crisis started, Jennifer received many e-mails from Charley’s therapists offering support. Recognizing the importance of continuing to advance Charley’s progress towards her rehabilitation goals, they suggested a virtual therapy session. “We got the basement ready and Charley carefully chose what she was going to wear, including her favorite tutu,” says Jennifer.

When they turned on the television and made the on-line connection, Charley squealed in delight to see her physiotherapist Sara and speechlanguage pathologist Alexie, all dressed up for a make-believe tea party. Charley used her walker so she could practice her exercises and work on her independent walking skills.

Charley, who was born with spina bifida, first started coming to the MAB-Mackay when she was two years old. She’s since gained the strength to hold her body up through physiotherapy, learned to eat regular table food like the rest of the family thanks to feeding therapy, is learning to get dressed on her own with her occupational therapist, and is practicing word pronunciation with her speech therapist. She received a wheelchair so she can keep up with the other children at school, a standing frame to develop her core strength, as well as a walker to promote her walking skills for short distances.

This spring, the focus of Charley’s therapy was on developing the skills to enter kindergarten in the fall, where she will join her friends from daycare.

Then the pandemic hit.

On-site therapies at the rehabilitation centre for more than 3,000 living with motor, vision, or hearing impairments, were put on hold. The staff quickly put in place new procedures to continue 8 | Spring 2020 Newsletter

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Before saying goodbye, they showed Jennifer where to place her hands to promote certain movements that Charley was to continue practicing.

This remote therapy is one example of how the staff of the MAB-Mackay are showing creativity and commitment in the face of COVID-19. Even under difficult circumstances, their dedication ensures they continue to deliver services to those in need.

“This isn’t an easy time for anyone,” says Alexie.

“We wanted to try to find ways to support the family as best we could.”

“Sessions like this take a lot of time to arrange, as we need to know what toys the family has at home that we can work with,” says Sara. “For Charley, we were able to mirror the set-up in our physiotherapy gym, which proved extremely helpful. Ultimately, if we can provide comfort and continuity to the families we serve, that’s really important.”

The goal of the campaign is to secure the funding necessary to provide the urgently needed tools for rehabilitation professionals to maintain therapies and emergency services through innovation and technology, and to break down the barriers of loneliness which are exceptionally challenging in this crisis.

We're all facing challenges we never thought possible. People living with physical disabilities, who are blind or deaf, need our help to weather this situation today. Every gift to the Covid-19 Emergency Fund will make a real difference.

Together, we will get through this, and brighter days will come. For Charley, and for all of us.

For more information on the Emergency Fund and to show your support, please visit our website at www.habilitas.ca.

For Charley, the session was a great success.

“The experience was fantastic, the next best thing to actually being at the centre” says Jennifer. “They put so much work into preparing for the session, and went to great lengths to make it fun. As parents, it means so much to us that her therapists take the time and really enjoy what they do. It meant a lot to Charley and gave her back a sense of normalcy. She’s already asking when her next session will be!”

The crisis caused by the Coronavirus threatens the safety, development, and health of so many people with physical disabilities in our community. The suspended programs and increased isolation are especially difficult for this already vulnerable population. Delivering the same quality of care in these extraordinary times requires ingenuity and resources.

They sang songs together to encourage Charley’s pronunciation, and then started a game of hideand-seek. First Charley went to hide, while Sara and Alexie gave instructions to her mom on where to look for her – a game that worked her coordination as well as her sentence structure.

In response to the needs of people with disabilities in this crisis, the Habilitas Foundation has launched an Emergency Fund. habilitas.ca | 9

2020-06-03 10:18 AM