Chapter 2 (A) Over the years I have been asked (or told) often "why did we never see disabled people growing up"? Maybe you did but you didn't realize it. For years the disabled were "warehoused" in facilities. It was only through the development of human rights over the past fifty years or so that … Continue reading We Have Always Been Here
Author: terrywiens
Certainly past my best before date which helps when experiencing the growth of social justice while, as a young polio survivor, understanding the reality of adaptability but still with the same heart of an activists with decades of participatory "wisdom" (I hope), namaste
Pioneer or Settler?
Chapter 2 I skipped a day, it was just too hot yesterday to sit in front of this screen reminiscing about all things childhood. But I am back today and the advantage of "hind-sight" has really been front and centre in my reminiscing. I was also dealing with lots of comments from others regarding childhood … Continue reading Pioneer or Settler?
Yes, Like Any Family We Had Chores
It has cooled down a bit which made a good wheel worth it. It was warmer in my condo than it was outside so I went wheeling. I had planned to attend the concert in Tomkins Park anyway so an early start to be there for the 12:30 performance. So again thank you 17th Avenue … Continue reading Yes, Like Any Family We Had Chores
Rut or Routine?
I began this many years ago simply as a "story telling" exercise for the sole purpose of capturing "one persons perspective" of growing up with a disability. That perspective was mine and I have come to realize over the years that I have been all over the map with my focus, to much activism and … Continue reading Rut or Routine?
On Returning to School
"School is a building which has four walls with the future inside" - Lon Watters It is that time of year again where kids walk that precarious line between the disappointment of summers end and the excitement of returning to school where they will meet up with friends they haven't seen all summer. For me, … Continue reading On Returning to School
Growing Up as the Cardiac Monitor
"One of the most interesting things about science fiction and fantasy is the way that the genres can offer different perspectives on matters to do with the body, the mind, medical technology, and the way we live our lives." - Tansy Rayner Roberts It feels odd using an opening quote that reflects the subject matter … Continue reading Growing Up as the Cardiac Monitor
The Continuing War for Veterans
"The Causeway of Complacency is Full of Potholes that Are Empty of Compassion" - Terry Wiens (2022) I am discovering people prefer "bite" size pieces of news. That is kind of sad since the complexity of so many issues get lost with only a bite. However this is one I can't skip over. When a … Continue reading The Continuing War for Veterans
When The Government Gives You a Break
"Optics can drive an economy" - Shane Douglas It is unfortunate when "optics" become more influential than facts. My latest issues is the truth behind the UCP government "helping" those in financial straights due to the economic challenges of today. This $50 per month rebate on your power bill is a joke. Have you ever … Continue reading When The Government Gives You a Break
Polio, Really
"Americans spend more money on Botox, face lifts and tummy tucks than on the age-old scourges of polio, small pox and malaria". - Victor Davis Hanson I no longer know where to start these days but as a polio survivor (1953 and I was a 3 year old) there is absolutely no reason for polio … Continue reading Polio, Really
Living The Dream, Dodging the Nightmare
“The highest form of knowledge is empathy.” – Bill Bullard Seven years old, mom and dad behind me It has been a week of loss for many. Young Oilers fan, Ben Stelter, passed away at six years old. He was a die hard Oilers fan engaged in the battle for his life with cancer. He lost … Continue reading Living The Dream, Dodging the Nightmare
A Poster Child's Perspective 