My name is Paul and I am a “difference-maker”. I would like to share with you one of the best experiences in my life. It all started when I was told I had been chosen to be a medal bearer in the Rick Hansen “Man in Motion World Tour 25th Anniversary Relay” on December 15, 2011.

The special day came and my worker Rob and I drove to the Espanola Regional Complex to meet the other “difference makers” in our community who were going to share this honour with me. We met the Rick Hansen team and were given the uniform that only “difference makers” receive. I was SO PROUD to wear it! I was also thrilled to receive my own replica Rick Hansen medal to keep. I was told that all difference makers are given these medals as a way to remember this special day but believe me when I tell you that I will never forget!

Then it was off to my segment of the relay where I anxiously waited for my fellow medal bearer to pass off the medal to me. Many of my friends were there to support and cheer me on as the medal was put around my neck. I fondly remember all the hugs, kisses and high fives! This was it; my moment to shine! I’ll never forget how I felt when I was done my part and had to pass the medal to the next person. I really didn’t want to give it up but knew it still had a long way to go.

My part of the relay was done but the day was not over. I still had the supper to look forward to. When I arrived back at the complex all my fellow medal bearers were there. We took a picture together and everyone talked about their experience. Did I mention that the supper was in “our” honour? Well it was! Imagine my surprise when a future park in the Town of Espanola will be dedicated to me and the other difference makers from my town!

At the end, all the medal bearers were called to the front and given a huge round of applause. It made me feel like a movie star!

I hope you enjoyed hearing about my Rick Hansen experience as much as I enjoyed participating in it.