At just 20 years old, Alyssa’s life already tells a story of resilience, determination, and achievement.

Born with Spina Bifida, Alyssa has undergone nearly 20 orthopaedic surgeries throughout her life. Until the age of 14, she remained mobile with the support of AFOs and walkers. However, repeated hip dislocations eventually made full-time wheelchair use necessary – a transition that came with its own physical and emotional challenges.

Her first wheelchair was generously donated by a former teammate, but poor seating support led to pressure complications and a prolonged hospitalization. Her next chair, ordered specifically for her, was designed for growth that never came – navigating daily life in equipment that never truly fit her body or her ambitions.

Despite these obstacles, Alyssa never slowed down.

After beginning in swimming, she discovered her passion in para ice hockey (also known as sledge hockey). In 2018, she got onto the ice for the first time and exactly one year later, at just 14 years old, she earned a spot on the Women’s National Team. Alyssa has proudly represented Team Canada since 2019, including competing in the first-ever Women’s World Championship this past August. She now plays a key role in advocating for women’s para ice hockey to be included in the 2030 Paralympic Games.

Her leadership extends far beyond competition. Alyssa served as the Youth Ambassador for the Children’s Rehab Foundation in 2019, has worked with Manitoba Possible since 2021 in summer recreation camps, and continues to mentor and coach junior sledge players – inspiring the next generation of athletes.

She is also pursuing her academic goals at the University of Manitoba, recently switching faculties to focus on psychology with hopes of completing a master’s degree in sports psychology.

Yet, like many individuals living with disabilities, Alyssa and her family faced ongoing challenges when it came to accessing equipment. For over five months, they worked with insurance providers trying to determine what support, if any, would be available for a new wheelchair. The process was frustrating, unclear, and discouraging.

Then, this past December, everything changed. Through our 5 Days of Caring initiative, Motion was excited to gift Alyssa with a brand-new wheelchair designed specifically to meet her needs, body, and lifestyle. For the first time, Alyssa has a chair that truly fits her, supporting both her independence and her active life as a student, athlete, mentor, and advocate.

This donation represents more than just equipment. It represents comfort, confidence, and the opportunity to continue chasing dreams without limitation.

At Motion, we believe that properly fitted mobility equipment is not a luxury, it is essential to quality of life. Alyssa’s journey reminds us why our work matters and why giving back through initiatives like 5 Days of Caring is so important.

Alyssa, your strength, leadership, and determination inspire us all. We are honoured to be part of your journey and cannot wait to see where you go next.