Every year, December 3 marks the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)—a day to honor the achievements, resilience, and leadership of people with disabilities worldwide. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” deeply resonates with the mission of Spinal Cord Injury Ontario (SCIO).

This year, IDPD coincides with Giving Tuesday, a global movement of generosity. For SCIO, this convergence is a powerful opportunity to spotlight the immense needs of our community and rally support for a more accessible, inclusive Ontario.

Leadership in Action: Tyler’s Journey

Five years ago, Tyler Carr’s life changed dramatically when a complete T4 spinal cord injury left him paralyzed from the waist down. The months following his injury were filled with uncertainty and challenges—not only for Tyler but for his wife Jennie and their young daughters, Maddie and Marlee.

During this difficult time, SCIO’s Service Navigation program became a vital lifeline for Tyler and his family. Service Navigator Andrea provided the support and practical guidance they needed, helping Tyler secure critical equipment, such as a hospital bed, an air mattress, and a specialized bike. Beyond the equipment, Andrea’s encouragement helped Tyler begin to see a future filled with possibilities.

“Andrea really pulled me out of a dark place,” Tyler shares. “She encouraged me to meet her for coffee, to talk, and eventually to consider giving back through Peer Mentoring. 

Today, Tyler has come full circle. As a Peer Mentor with SCIO, he visits newly injured patients at Providence Care in Kingston. His lived experience allows him to connect on a deeply personal level, offering hope and understanding to those just beginning their spinal cord injury journeys.

“It’s very rewarding,” Tyler says. “I try to lift their spirits, answer questions they might not feel comfortable asking family or staff, and just help them feel more comfortable in their situation. The feedback I get from the nurses and staff is so positive. It feels good to know I’m making a difference.”

For Tyler, Peer Mentoring is not only about helping others; it’s also been a source of healing and purpose for him.

Why Your Support Matters

Tyler’s journey from patient to mentor wouldn’t have been possible without the support of SCIO’s programs—and the generosity of donors who make these programs a reality.

Your contributions help SCIO provide:

• Service Navigation: Immediate, personalized support that connects you to the regional programs and resources for individuals with SCI.
• Peer Support: Opportunities for people with lived experience to inspire and guide others on their path to recovery.
• Advocacy: Driving policy change and expanding access to adaptive technologies that transform lives.

This Giving Tuesday, your support can help more people like Tyler find hope, independence, and purpose after a life-changing injury.

Join the Movement this December 3

As we celebrate this IDPD, we want you to know that your support—whether through donations, fundraising, or sharing our mission—truly matters. Every act of kindness and generosity brings us closer to an Ontario where people with disabilities are not just included but are leading the way toward a sustainable, inclusive future.

As we celebrate International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let’s honor the leadership and resilience of people like Tyler. And on Giving Tuesday, let’s act on that celebration by giving generously.

Visit sciontario.org/give today.

Together, we can amplify voices, create opportunities, and build a brighter, more inclusive future. Let’s get started today.