Senator Larry Campbell’s Weblog

On May 7, I participated in the Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day on the Hill by volunteering to spend the day in a wheelchair while trying to go through my parliamentary duties as usual. From 8:30 in the morning, until 2:00 in the afternoon, I learned how important cracks in sidewalks can be; how steep the slope from behind East Block up to the Senate really is; how to find a washroom I could enter; and how to open a door if you can’t find the automatic button. In the process, my eyes were opened to the everyday challenges faced by those permanently confined to a wheelchair. I have more awareness of what is happening in their world, and have huge appreciation for the way they continuously triumph over challenge and adversity.

As Canadians, we pride ourselves on our high standard of living for all. However, I was shocked to learn that the unemployment rate for people with spinal cord injuries remains at 62%, well above the national average. If the Canadian quality of life is to continue to be a source of pride for our country, we cannot stop our efforts to promote equality for individuals with physical disabilities.

I urge Canadians to support The Canadian Paraplegic Association, which helps over 40,000 Canadians who suffer from spinal cord injuries and their families. The CPA provides resources such as peer support and counseling, informational resources for both adults and youth, and rehabilitation and training programs for Canadians with spinal cord injuries and other physical disabilities. These resources, and the support which the community of the CPA provides, assist individuals in achieving self-reliance and independence. My day on the Hill without the use of my legs has made it clear how important awareness and support is if we are going to ensure equality for those who suffer from spinal cord injuries.