May 20, 2025
Not long ago, nearly 100 people in our community received devastating news: the pommel walkers that had given them the freedom to stand or walk on their own had been recalled and, heartbreakingly, would not be replaced by the government.
You can fill the void left by the loss of these devices. We need your help!
The ability to move freely isn’t just about physical health; it’s foundational to exploring, learning, and participating fully in life. Restricting this freedom has deep, long-term effects on individuals, families, and our entire healthcare system.
The challenge is huge: Each of these rugged, complex devices can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $8,000 – an expense far beyond the reach of most families.
The community is already starting to respond – Qualico and the Hastings-Van Family have generously committed to match all donations made, up to $10,000.
Rory’s story
Can you imagine having the ability to move around but not being allowed to?
That’s the current reality for Donna Faschauner’s son, Rory. Rory, 26, can’t walk unassisted. Donna tells us that the last two years since the recall have been extraordinarily difficult for him:
With the walker he’s fully supported so he can walk if he wants. He can run if he wants. Or he can just stand there. He’s completely independent. It gives him that mobility that he doesn’t have on his own.
Rory’s had his walker since he was 10 years old. At home, he’s always crawled everywhere because there’s not enough room for the walker. But he loved using it all day long when he was in school. And since he graduated, using it at his day program.
But since it was taken away two years ago, he’s mostly been stuck in his wheelchair.
The need is growing – And so is the gap
We’re in a new era for mobility aids, with advances in technology and safety standards but support for adults hasn’t kept pace with the need.
As children grow into adulthood, their devices become worn out, unsuitable, or simply too small. Government funding has dried up, and costs have soared. Healthcare providers are left repurposing old, failing devices – sometimes holding them together with tape.
This is not the standard of care people in our community deserve.
Your generosity purchases new replacement walkers and standers, customized for the individual, and helps all people supported by St.Amant to live full and meaningful lives.
You can help get people moving again!
Every walker purchased brings all of us closer to a more inclusive society – one where the quality of life for the most vulnerable among us lifts the quality of life for us all.
Your support makes all the difference
Your donation will help restore dignity and independence for people who – like Rory – just want to be able to move freely.
Together we can ensure no one is left behind, and that every Manitoban has the opportunity to move, explore, and thrive.
With gratitude,
Tania Douglas
Executive Director
P.S. The costs for attaining, maintaining and distributing these specialized devices could reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Every contribution, large or small, brings us one step closer to a more inclusive and supportive community.
To make your donation and have it matched by Qualico and the Hastings-Van Family please visit stamant.ca/MakingMoves or call us directly at 204-258-7073.
