Climbing the Tower for Change

To illustrate the barriers facing people with disabilities, two-time Olympian, four-time Paralympian, six-time World Champion Jeff Adams will climb the 1,776 stairs of the CN Tower, Canada’s wonder of the world, in a wheelchair on September 26.

Called "Step Up to Change," the event is about changing preconceptions and stereotypes about people with disabilities and affecting positive change in attitudes towards improved accessibility.

Although Jeff has won medals in his athletic career, he continues to face physical barriers every day. He has been asked to leave a Toronto bar because his wheelchair was deemed a "fire hazard," and he had to learn how to climb stairs in his wheelchair in order to gain access to some buildings. Jeff has committed himself to breaking barriers and increasing awareness of accessibility issues.

"Step Up to Change" will also raise funds to support an outreach program that will allow students to experience the challenges of living with a disability. This program will help affect positive change by educating future generations - architects, builders and legislators - about the importance of accessibility.

The climb will be a day-long event, taking more than seven hours to complete. While Jeff is conquering the tower, a range of fun and educational activities will take place at the base of the CN Tower. The climb will be simultaneously broadcast on the Internet.

For more information, visit www.stepuptochange.com.