Accessibility champion Rick Hansen brought a deeply personal message to the Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) board at its June 19 meeting, urging them to lead the way in building inclusive, accessible communities for all.
Hansen was there to introduce the (RHFAC) 香蕉视频直播� a national program that helps governments and organizations assess and improve the accessibility of their buildings. But first, he shared the story that changed his life forever.
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That attitude propelled Hansen to become a world-class wheelchair athlete and eventually launch the , wheeling more than 40,000 kilometres through 34 countries to raise awareness and funds for spinal cord research.
He recalled one moment that has stayed with him ever since.
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Over the years, Rick Hansen has worked alongside some of the world香蕉视频直播檚 most recognized champions for change, including Terry Fox, Michael J. Fox, and Christopher Reeve. He and Terry Fox shared a close friendship, both growing up in B.C. and turning personal adversity into a national movement for hope and action.
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Hansen noted that there are 1.3 billion people on the planet living with a disability, including one in four Canadians. He pointed out that there are still 270 different accessibility codes across Canada.
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Hansen challenged the RDCO board to lead.
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He closed with a message of encouragement and urgency.
香蕉视频直播淚香蕉视频直播檓 here not just to challenge you, but also to say thank you 香蕉视频直播� because it's the work you do that makes a difference," an emotional Hansen said. "I know it's hard. I know it's sometimes thankless. But you're doing good work. You're helping people like me feel that I香蕉视频直播檓 not alone 香蕉视频直播� that we can work together and get there faster. The country needs you.香蕉视频直播�
