Why would a caregiver suddenly quit and how should you handle it

 The news of a caregiver quitting is typically not the best news to hear. An example of when it may be good to hear is if they’re not good at their job, or there’s a clash of personalities between you and them. Of course, there are several more reasons why

How the ER can be improved for people with disabilities

 Last Friday, I had to go to the ER because of a breathing issue. I should quickly point out that it wasn’t related to Covid or the vaccine I received last week. As I’ve mentioned in previous articles, I use a portable ventilator at all times to help me breathe.

The relationship between a caregiver and the person receiving care

 ABOVE: A young boy takes a walk with his caregivers. (PHOTO:iSTOCK) “If you have a good working relationship, the better chances you have of them (caregivers) sticking around and positively impacting your life.” The relationship between a caregiver and the person receiving care can often seem confusing to those not involved. Throughout

Just doing my best to roll with the punches

 Let’s start off with some good news that I’d like to share. Last week, I was finally able to book an appointment to get the Covid-19 vaccines. My first one will be on April 27, and my second one is set for August. As of this writing, I don’t know

Tracheostomies and ventilators — every breath it takes

 Above: Medical ventilators like this ICU artificial lung ventilator are used in hospitals. (PHOTO: ISTOCK) Over the past year, there has been much conversation regarding ventilators. This, of course, is primarily due to Covid. Topics range from hospitals having a short supply of ventilators and the fear of using one.

Living with long-term disabilities: this is how we roll

 Last week’s column was a bit of a downer, but it’s a reality for many people with disabilities, including myself. I just want to say thank you to those who reached out to me and shared their experiences. That’s one of the reasons why I enjoy doing my column here.

Winds of change: personal attendant care and shortages

 This week’s column may seem a little different to some. Things are a little stressful around here. Thankfully,  it has nothing to do with my health, at least not my physical health. A few weeks ago, I briefly mentioned the ongoing possibility of having to go to the hospital or

One person’s story of being in isolation due to Covid

 Recently, I was chatting to a long-time friend of mine about Covid-19. They live in a local care facility. Out of respect for their privacy and any possible ramifications, I won’t mention their name or where they live. But I did want to share their story partly because it’s rarely

Trust us. We know what is best for us.

 After successfully avoiding mentioning the “C” word last week, I have some news to share regarding Covid. A few days ago, I received an email asking me if I was ok with giving my contact information to Ottawa Public Health to be put on the list to get the vaccine.

PWD — more than meets the eye

 If you’re anything like me, you’re probably tired of hearing about the “C” word, and I’m not talking about cancer. This week, I’m taking a much-needed break from mentioning the “C” word. Recently, I received a new piece of medical equipment. I received a portable stand for my ventilator and

Reopening doesn’t mean it’s accessible to everyone

 As I’m sure you’re all aware by now, Ottawa is set to reopen on Tuesday, at least in a limited form; businesses such as restaurants, gyms and salons will be allowed to reopen with restrictions. Last week, I discussed how I thought it was too soon. I still feel that

Lights, camera, and rolling — part one

 Above: Actor/writer Ryan O'Connell plays a gay man with cerebral palsy in Special. Ever since the pandemic started, I’ve had more time to watch shows and movies, both new and old. Recently, I came across a show on Amazon Prime Video called Loudermilk. At first glance, I wasn’t sure about it, but

Persons with disabilities need accommodations and supports, not medically assisted death

 By Robin Acton As the mother of a young woman with an intellectual disability and the wife of someone with a significant physical disability, I know full well the value and meaning of their lives. Their lives, like my own, are defined by who they are, who they love, their

Winter in Ottawa — delivering independence

 Judging by the amount of snow that fell over the weekend, I think we can all safely say that it feels more than Winter. With all this snow on the ground, it means that people with disabilities, particularly those with mobility issues, have an even more challenging time getting around.

A look back at when I ran for Mayor in 2018

 October 22nd, 2020, will mark two years since the 2018 Ottawa Municipal Election was held. For those that may not be aware, I was one of the candidates that ran for Mayor. With the anniversary coming up, I figured that I would take the opportunity to talk about my experiences

Perceptions & misconceptions part two: Love shouldn’t disable us

 Dating, in general, can be difficult. It can be incredibly challenging if you’re a person with a disability. This week, in part two of my two-part series about perceptions and misconceptions regarding people with disabilities (PWD), we’re going to talk about dating, relationships, and some of the misconceptions people have