Voices

What dismantling ableism means to me is moving beyond simply “including” people with disabilities and instead recognizing that disability is a normal part of the human experience. It means shifting from designing systems for the “average” person and then adding accommodations later, to designing communities, services, workplaces, schools, and...

Every employment journey is unique shaped by personal experiences, unexpected challenges, and the determination to move forward. At Accessible Employment Services, these journeys are at the heart of everything we do. My name is Rosanne Barlias, and I’m an Employment Specialist. In my role, I have the privilege of...

Dear Rachele – Hands-free Solo Play *Note that questions have been edited for length, clarity, and respecting privacy. Reader asks: I am a social worker supporting a cisgender male client who has a spinal cord injury. He is not in a relationship and is looking for ways to take...

Dear Rachele – How to Approach Sex in New Relationships *Note that questions have been edited for length, clarity, and respecting privacy. Reader asks: A few months ago, I had a brief romantic relationship with someone with a newer spinal cord injury. I didn’t know all that much about...

For 25 years, SCIO’s Ski & Snowboard Day has united supporters, volunteers, and participants on the slopes — building community, raising funds, and creating unforgettable moments. As we celebrate this milestone, we asked a few dedicated volunteers to reflect on what the event means to them and why they...

Understanding Urinary Tract Infections: A Catheter Users Guide to Better Bladder Health What Causes Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)? A UTI occurs when bacteria in the urine multiply enough to cause infection, this is confirmed by the presence of bacteria and symptoms. Catheter users face higher risks because catheterizing can...

On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, inpatients and community members gathered at UHN Toronto Rehab (Lyndhurst Centre) for a truly heartwarming Peer Connections Holiday Concert featuring acclaimed singer-songwriter Howard Gladstone. From the first chord to the final notes, the evening embodied the spirit of the holiday season—a chance to pause,...

This year, to celebrate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, the SCIO community took part in an accessible travel tour at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The event follows a year of major efforts to make air travel more inclusive—especially for travellers with mobility disabilities who rely on wheelchairs...

International Day of Persons with Disabilities — December 3 Travel should spark excitement not anxiety. Yet for many people with spinal cord injuries or other mobility disabilities, the airport experience can feel intimidating, unpredictable, and overwhelming. That’s exactly why the Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA), in partnership with Air...

Each year on December 3, the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD) gives people around the world the opportunity to recognize progress made toward disability inclusion — and to acknowledge the work that still lies ahead. More than 1 billion people globally live with a disability, a number...

Meet Terry, a modern-day philosopher and math teacher who likes to go against the grain and challenge expectations, both on a personal and societal level. In all facets of his life, he enjoys incorporating his unique principles that help ensure a more fulfilling life. “Rather than partying or drinking,...

A neighbourhood café where friendship, good coffee, and meaningful opportunities come together. In the heart of the Beaches, a cozy café is serving more than lattes and scones—it’s serving opportunity. Founded by lifelong friends and educators Donna Peterson and Leslie Grant, Judy’s Beach Café blends good coffee with a...

When the Bugg family set out to raise money for spinal cord injury support, they weren’t sure how far their efforts would go. What began as a grassroots initiative driven by compassion has blossomed into a powerful fundraising campaign that raised $15,000 to help people living with paralysis and...

September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada—a time to reflect on the impact of residential schools, honour Survivors, and recognize the strength of Indigenous communities. At Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, we believe that listening, learning, and amplifying Indigenous voices is a vital part of reconciliation....

On August 26th, ULI Toronto’s Accelerating Accessibility Coalition (AAC) teamed up with REENA to give members and guests a tour of the Lou Fruitman Residence in Thornhill. With over 50 attendees, the day was a success, providing numerous opportunities to reflect on the future of accessible housing. From developers...

If you live in Ontario and have ever needed to access an Emergency Department at your local hospital, then you are likely familiar with the experience of waiting long hours to be seen. Combined with the needs of a physical disability, such as pre-planned transportation, accessing urgent medical care...