Making a Difference

By Lisa Bendall

On May 31, a crowd of supporters at Parliament Hill welcomed a book that celebrates the numerous achievements of Canadians with disabilities.

"Making a Difference: Profiles in Abilities," officially launched in Ottawa, tells the stories of Canadians who have made a difference in their local, national or international communities. From Allan Simpson, a well-known pioneer in the disability movement, to Joanne McDonald, a former athlete of the decade, to Bruce Sinclair, brilliant in the corporate world, "Making a Difference" introduces the reader to achievers from all parts of Canada, with a variety of disabilities, and with an array of talents and legacies.

The book was written by Ottawa’s Daryl Rock, who was inspired by the many exceptional people with disabilities he has met over the years and who wanted to show the nation the extent to which it owes its richness to its citizens with disabilities. In particular, Daryl was pushed into action by the devastating loss of Allan Simpson.

"Allan not only lived in the disability community, he led it," Daryl asserted at the book launch. "With his death, I feared Canadians would lose a piece of their own history. Someone had to chronicle the actions of this man, not simply because he was a good man but because he had played such a pivotal role in improving the lives of Canada’s citizens with disabilities for almost four decades."

Daryl approached the Canadian Abilities Foundation to help make the dream a reality. We received support in the form of funding from the federal government’s Millennium Partnership Program. Other sponsors included Scotiabank and Delta Hotels. The Canadian Abilities Foundation also contributed a special section of profiles from past issues of "Abilities" magazine, such as those of artist Jane Cameron, photographer Paul Malon and mountaineer Ross Watson.

The end result is a beautifully designed, enthralling read. One cannot help but feel pride as one realizes the enormity of the contributions people with disabilities have made, and continue to make, to our society. As one reader put it, "I read it cover to cover over two days, and was so inspired to learn more about these wonderful individuals who have made a difference for all Canadians."

The launch on Parliament Hill was well attended -- and guests were enthusiastic about the new release. Deputy Prime Minister Herb Gray, Minister Responsible for the Government of Canada’s Millennium Initiative, addressed the room. "This moving tribute to outstanding Canadians with disabilities is remarkable," he said, "not only for the achievements it celebrates, but for the positive message it delivers to others -- the only limitations in life are those we place on ourselves."

Madame Aline Chr‚tien was on hand, seated beside the author, as they autographed copies of the book. Also in attendance were disability leaders, political delegates, and family and friends of the individuals profiled.

At the launch, Daryl Rock expressed thanks for the overwhelming support, adding that "the people I profiled are all truly gifted individuals... My pride in being Canadian was raised to a whole new level."

To order "Making a Difference: Profiles in Abilities," send $19.95 plus $5.00 shipping/handling to: 489 College St., Ste. 501, Toronto, ON, M6G 1A5, or call 1-888-700-4476 to pay with VISA.

(Lisa Bendall is editor of "Making a Difference.")