YORKTON - A local woman has donated two new water wheelchairs to accommodate the growing demand for access and inclusion within the Access Communications Water Park.
Cindy van Eeden, who according to a recent City of Yorkton release has a driving passion for equitable access and inclusion of children, youth, and adults with physical disabilities initially approached the City with the idea of a donation.
With the support of many friends and organizations who donated towards the goal and van Eeden’s own efforts, she was able to secure funding for two wheelchairs and wheelchair straps for the Water Park.
In addition to van Eeden’s professional interest in increasing access and inclusion, she is personally vested as well, being a mother of a child who faced physical and cognitive limitations in accessing recreation opportunities.
“Connor was a very special kid who loved the water; it was his favourite place to be (outside of watching Blues Clues). We raised the money with the memory of him in our hearts,” said van Eeden in the release. “We benefited so much as a family from being able to use the accessible chairs after Connor broke his leg in 2012 and 2013. He never recovered the ability to walk and we wanted to give others a chance to experience water play and the joy it can bring. The people in the community will be able to access the water park and its amazing pools with ease. Hopefully knowing the chairs are here, more people will get into the water and enjoy its benefits.”
Graham Erickson, Water Park Supervisor, expressed that the City is grateful for this generous donation from van Eeden’s family and friends.
“It helps us fulfill our mission to serve our community by increasing accessibility for participants. We have had times where participants and the people supporting them have had to wait patiently for a chair to be available. This will make accessing the pool more convenient, accessible, and equitable,” he said.
