Accessibility Committee honours late member

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To mark this year’s National AccessAbility Week, the Leamington Accessibility Advisory Committee wishes to honour one of its beloved former members — Donald Giesbrecht (1965-2020).

Never underestimate a person in a wheelchair.

Faced with a hereditary disease known as progressive myelopathy, Donald lived his life in his electric wheelchair and adapted van.

Donald faced his physical challenges with a positive and realistic attitude, a deep faith, life goals and dreams. He and his wife of 23 years travelled everywhere and experienced the good and the bad of accessibility.

This did not deter them from making a difference right here at home in Leamington.

Donald Giesbrecht and his snow plow.

Photo submitted

Donald was an active member of the Leamington Accessibility Advisory Committee for over 20 years.

He was dedicated to improving accessibility and increasing the opportunities to live life fully for all people facing physical barriers.

During his years on the committee, Donald was a part of many accomplishments including creation of an accessible seating area at the arena, improving washrooms and walkways at the marina, and improving parking spaces with well-marked parking spots to ensure the safety of people exiting vehicles.

Donald Giesbrecht’ honorary bench on the Seacliff Park boardwalk. Inset is a closeup of the commemorative plaque on the bench.

SUN photo

Donald was a smart and innovative person. Many who knew Donald may recall the time he converted a half Heinz onion barrel into a plow that he affixed onto the front of his wheelchair and steered it with ropes. Donald not only plowed his driveway, but also plowed his neighbours’ driveways.

One of Donald’s dreams was to support the development of a baseball program, adapting equipment and the field for people in wheelchairs.

He was also interested in creating a full-season fully accessible park ground to attract tourists to Leamington and highlight progressive examples of an inclusive community.

Donald’s contributions will be missed.

In memory of Donald and in recognition of his dedication to accessibility, a bench was recently installed at the Seacliff Beach boardwalk.