Recently I was at my parent's helping to clear out a few "things". I came across a pair of  down hill skis, a wind surfer, golf clubs, water skis and ice skates. All were a big part of my brother's life. That is in the past.

Over ten years have gone by since the rug has been slowly pulled out from under his feet.

My brother-LeAaron has a rare disease called Ataxia-it is brain stem atrophy. It is a progressive disease with no control or cure. It affects his speech, his fine motor skills and his ability to perform all types of physical activities-including driving, walking, eating and things we take for granted in our daily lives. He will be 50 this summer and he now relies mainly on a wheelchair to get around. He also relies heavily on the support of family, friends and the community.

This is where the Wellness Program comes into action. Prior to their involvement with my brother and family there was little opportunity for LeAaron to get out and do much of anything. you could see that he was becoming more reclusive and introverted.

The Wellness Program made a connection with my brother and a man-Justin. It took a bit of coordinating but now every  Monday and Friday my brother is picked up by the Local Handi Transit and transported to the recreation center. LeAaron is met by Justin and taken to the gym for a work out. Justin assists LeAaron so that he is able to go  from one machine to another-he gets much needed exercise. You may think this isn't much, but if you could see and sense my brother's anticipation every Monday and Friday morning you would understand what this means to my brother. He wakes up early on these days (something he isn't inclined to do every day) and looks forward to his day! LeAaron and Justin have formed a bond that is one of trust and loyalty.

Through the Wellness Program LeAaron also has the opportunity to attend special events such as Christmas Parties and dances. He even gets up and dances in his wheelchair-I was shocked when I first heard this-in a good way!!! How wonderful.

The Wellness Program has helped LeAaron emotionally, physically and personally!!!!!

The extent of the Program does not end there. It helps our entire family. We are a close knit family and try to help LeAaron all that we can.
He now lives in Henesy Terrace where they assist him in living on his own. But where the outside world is concerned he still needs other assistance. My parents who are now seniors help but they have their own health issues and life challenges. I have a family of six-with four children from 3-15 and I cannot be there for LeAaron all the time. He has two sisters in Thunder Bay who do what they can from a distance-and let me tell you it is great to share the news of an organization that is there to help when you can't be there.

We want the best for LeAaron. The Wellness Program helps to fill the gaps and to provide a brighter outlook and positive lifestyle for him!

It is appreciated so much by LeAaron and our entire family! I can only imagine how it helps other individuals and their families as well. It allows time for family to focus on other issues. It brings a sense of satisfaction, a sense of worth and deserved happiness.

We as individuals and a community need programs and people like this. One day on of your family members or perhaps yourself  will need support, kindness and a friend. I pray that organizations like the Wellness Program will still be there for you..........

Thank You

Sandi Lentz