In this episode of Underestimated, presented by Oatley Vigmond Personal Injury Lawyers and brought to you by Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, the focus is on accessible housing. Dave Kemp, a lifelong resident of Simcoe County, shares his journey after sustaining a spinal cord stroke, resulting in T5 incomplete paraplegia. Determined to stay in their existing home, Dave and his family received tremendous community support to modify their house to meet his needs.
The episode delves into the challenges of finding accessible housing, emphasizing the various avenues people pursue, from renovating existing homes to exploring universal design in new builds. Accessible housing is a crucial aspect of independent living for individuals with disabilities, requiring patience, community support, and financial resources.
Dave Kemp showcases the modifications made to his past and present home to enhance his independence. From an elevator servicing all three floors to a porch lift in the garage, Dave’s story reflects the importance of thoughtful design and decision-making. The episode emphasizes the significance of community support, as colleagues and friends played vital roles in fundraising and executing modifications, making the entire process possible.
Dave’s personal account highlights the need for accessible bathrooms and the freedom that well-designed spaces offer. The discussion touches on the importance of swift supplier communication and strategic planning, especially when facing tight timelines.
Ultimately, Dave’s story is one of resilience, resourcefulness, and community solidarity in the face of the challenges posed by spinal cord injury and the pursuit of accessible housing. For those navigating similar journeys, the episode encourages reaching out to resources like Spinal Cord Injury Ontario for support and guidance.
In the broader context of wheelchair accessible home design, Dave Kemp’s experience highlights the transformative impact of accessible technology and assistive technology on the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The journey detailed in the episode aligns with the mission of organizations like Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, advocating for accessibility and providing valuable resources for those seeking accessible accommodation.
Finding accessible housing can be a real challenge – it can take a long time and resources, from community support to your own reserves of patience to financial resources. If this is something affecting you and your family, we can help determine the options in your region. Reach out to info@sciontario.org for support.
Dave’s story serves as a testament to the importance of creating wheelchair accessible houses, apartments, and living environments across Canada, fostering independence for wheelchair users and promoting a more inclusive society that recognizes and addresses the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities.
If you enjoyed this video on wheelchair accessible home design, assistive technology, and accessible technology, please remember to like, share, subscribe, and leave a comment if you have any questions or suggestions. We hope to see you here again soon!
