A Fitness for All campaign in Parksville launches June 1, to raise funds to purchase specialized fitness equipment for people living with disabilities, illness or chronic pain.
The event is behind held on the final day of Accessible Oceanside Week and takes place at Jim’s Gym, located on 1222 Industrial Way, Parksville, on Saturday, 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Organized by a joint venture between Universal Access Qualicum Beach (UAQB), a volunteer group of community members and health care providers operating under the umbrella of the Qualicum Community Education and Wellness Society (QCEWS), and Accessible Oceanside Association in Parksville, this collaboration’s mandate is to ensure that health and wellness opportunities are accessible for all bodies.
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One of the major challenges that person’s living with disability face is safe access to accessible spaces where they can enjoy physical activity and maintain gains from rehabilitation programs, as well as prevent secondary disability such as falls.
By partnering with Jim’s Gym in Parksville, this initiative will be able to provide space and support for use of specialized equipment such as The Bungee Mobility Trainer.
After experiencing this equipment first-hand, Diana Lamont, honourary campaign chairperson and financial supporter of the campaign said: “I haven’t been able to walk without stumbling since my accident four years ago. I can’t believe I can dance again! Rock and Roll!”
At this special kickoff fundraising event attendees will learn more about accessible fitness, see a demonstration with specialized equipment, enjoy some healthy refreshments and have the opportunity to enter a draw for a three-month gym membership, courtesy of Jim’s Gym.
For more information about the Fitness for All campaign contact Holly Carnegie Letcher at (250) 927-3730 or email at pathways2wellness@bell.net or visit the website at: https://qcews.com/universal-access-qualicum-beach
— NEWS Staff