Meet Motion’s newest client ambassador, Stephen! Stephen is a Canadian Armed Forces Veteran who became a wheelchair user after an injury to his lower leg led to the discovery that he had a rare neurological condition. Read more about Stephen’s story below, including his passion for physical activity as a para-endurance athlete. My name is Stephen La Salle, and I’m a para-endurance athlete from the Niagara region in Ontario. Before becoming disabled during training while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, I worked as a reservist with the Cadet and Junior Ranger Support Group. An injury to my lower leg caused severe nerve damage and led to the discovery of a rare neurological condition. This left me in debilitating pain and unable to recover. After exhausting all known treatment options and facing a rapidly declining quality of life, the difficult decision was made in October 2021 to amputate my injured leg below the knee. It was hoped that the amputation would allow me to walk again with a prosthesis and return to my active lifestyle and passion for running. Unfortunately, due to ongoing complications, this wasn’t possible, and I now rely on a wheelchair permanently. Previous Next Despite these challenges, I’ve embraced my new reality and am determined to inspire others by showing that it’s possible to overcome adversity and continue to pursue your goals and dreams. I’ve found new ways to enjoy physical activity while maintaining my independence. With the encouragement of friends, I began competing in para-triathlon last summer and quickly have made a name for myself as a determined athlete who refuses to let physical limitations hold me back. These experiences have given me unique insight into the products and services offered by Motion — tools that can help others achieve their own goals and independence. To learn more about my journey as a para-endurance athlete, I invite you to follow me on Instagram at @sjelasalle and visit my website at StephenLaSalle.ca. Follow our social media accounts to stay updated on Stephen! This material does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. Please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations. Get to know the writer Stephen La Salle, Stephen served for 12 years as member of the Canadian Armed Forces. As a member of the reserves he worked with the Cadet and Junior Ranger Support Group as both Cadet Instructor Cadre Officer and Unit Public Affairs Representative. For his dedication to the cadet program The Canadian Armed Forces awarded him the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013. While on duty in the spring of 2018, Stephen was conducting a training exercise where he sustained a serious injury to his lower leg that caused nerve damage and the discovery of a rare neurological condition that left him with debilitating pain and the inability to recover from the injury.
View Amanda Mees, Meet Amanda – Employee & Client Ambassador We are excited to introduce one of our newest ambassadors, Amanda – who is also a member of the Motion team! Originally from Lachine, Quebec, Amanda moved to Regina for a summer job and never looked back. After meeting the team at Motion Regina for her accessibility needs, Amanda joined Motion as a Customer Service […] Learn more View Beau Hayward, Client Ambassador, Motion Meet Beau – Client Ambassador My name is Beau Hayward, and I’m a C4 C5 incomplete quadriplegic. As a Client Ambassador, I’m excited to share my experiences in hopes that they shed light on others like myself and on the opportunities I have taken advantage of as a person living with a physical disability. Learn more View Garrick Estick, Meet Garrick – Client Ambassador We are very excited to introduce you to one of our newest client ambassadors, Garrick Estick! With his love for music, events, and audience engagement, Garrick’s life has been fueled by passion, rhythm, and connection. Despite the obstacles he has faced, Garrick has remained positive and is focused on embracing life’s possibilities. Read more from […] Learn more Previous Next