I am honoured to be speaking here to the accepted individuals who have embarked on a career in this amazing facility we call “The Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. I fondly refer to it as an institute of hope. I became a resident of the Glenrose, for a 48 day rehabilitation program. I arrived frightened, confused, and fearful of my future; never did I imagine this podium would be a symbol of the strength I learned here. I was astonished at the professional, yet personal care I received here, they often say there is no I in team, there is also no I in care! As I thought my future would be full of barriers and restrictions, I was overwhelmed at the camaraderie that was surrounding me. Every therapist not only communicated with me, but each other, I honestly thought I was the only resident but was in awe of how many members of this amazing facility where here, from every member of every support staff, down to me, everyone was acknowledged. My fears were this was going to be cold, lonely exercise; but that feeling quickly vanished with every rehabilitation session I received. From the psychologist to the front desk receptionist I felt like a human, an able bodied human whose life was very important, whose future and independence was in the forefront.

In awe is how I describe the treatment of me being personally involved in my rehabilitation, my interests were always held in high regard, after the journey I had previously endured in other facilities, I was being asked what my goals were! The dietician was even accommodating my food preferences! Where was I? Who were these people? I was in a facility of innovation and respect treated like a human, not a patient. I thought it would come to a screeching halt after my 48 day stay, but no! The ongoing outpatient follow up was incredible; they were generally concerned and encouraging of how I would ease back in to society, independently. I was never given false hope or promises, nor was I never told what I could not do. I felt an urge of self worth and reassurance of my future, a future that is rich through what I gained here. I never heard “You’ll never be able to do that” Rather if I recall the phrase was “How would you do that!” Always a sincere, safe sound of encouragement. I still to this day face physical challenges but when the situation arises I think “How would I do that” Always assured there was never a wrong answer rather a safe, independent solution!

I was humbled and honoured when I was nominated for the “Award of Courage”, in disbelief when I actually received the honour! But the true courage is deserving to the amazing team that guided my journey, which being the dedicated, hardworking, honest professionals I encountered here. As future professionals of this innovative facility of hope, get used to success stories, this place is the grounds for them.

I was taught ability not disability, a sense of courage, not fear. I once again became a person.

If I can sum it up with a quote, may I use the wise words of Ralph Waldo Emerson : “Let us treat men and women well; treat them as if they were real. Perhaps they are”