National Advocate of the Year: Canadian Paraplegic Association

National Advocate of the Year

The Canadian Paraplegic Association is pleased to announce that the recipient of the National Advocate of the Year Award is Mr. Courtney Keenan.

When presented with the award by Ned Shillington and Noel Brown (in photo with Courtney), Courtney received a standing ovation from the CPA Board of Directors and Ned Shillington noted that in all his years working on the National Board, it was the first time he had seen a standing ovation given.

A native of New Brunswick, he is a key ambassador for people with spinal cord injuries. He is an advocate, a fundraiser and a motivator.

He has actively served on the Board of Directors of CPA (NB) Inc. for several years. In this position he has demonstrated his commitment to housing and disability supports.

He has championed the need for a new rehabilitation centre and working on the DREAM ANGEL campaign is responsible for securing over $380,000 � over 30% of the required funds to date!

He has been a significant advocate for accessible housing and has been featured on accessible housing in the local press. He assisted a local hotel to design an accessible room and a recent guest indicated that it was the most accessible hotel room he had ever stayed in.

When asked what his future held, Mr. Keenan answered: �My future�s so bright I gotta wear shades�.

Because of individuals like Courtney Keenan, the lives of others have and will be brightened.

The CPA congratulates and offers a heart-felt thanks for all that this bright young man has done to advance the lives of others with spinal cord injuries.