Faces of Erinoak
Bob's Story
It's easy to envision an eloquent Bob McKay in the profession he has chosen for himself. A criminology student at YorkUniversity, 19-year-old Bob hopes to become a lawyer for the opportunity it presents to influence change.
But Bob doesn't need a law degree to influence others. He does so every day in all that he does and in all that he has accomplished. Upon listening to this passionate young man, it quickly becomes apparent he is gifted with a remarkable ability to inspire. He is a powerful presence with a story to tell, one that opens minds and challenges beliefs. And when Bob tells his story, people not only listen, they are moved to make a difference.
Born with Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome, a rare disorder that causes stiff joints and limited range of motion, Bob has no use of his legs and minimal use of his hands and upper arms. He has been a client of Erinoak ever since he can remember. The children's treatment centre has provided physiotherapy, occupational therapy, recreational activities, support, information, advocacy, and other services, including the guidance Bob needed to make the leap from high school to YorkUniversity and living on his own for the first time.
It's Erinoak, in fact, along with a supportive family and friends, which Bob credits for the self-confidence that has propelled him to excel these past 19 years. "I was always told I could do anything I wanted and not to let anything hold me back. So that's what I've tried to do."
Throughout school, Bob distinguished himself academically, graduating in the top 2 per cent from the elite International Business Technology program at his high school.
Socially, if Bob couldn't participate in intramural sports, he was the referee or otherwise held a place of honour. A role model, he helped other students with their school work and was well-liked for his positive, jovial and less-than-quiet nature. His favorite T-shirt bears the slogan, "Everyone is entitled to my opinion."
"That pretty well sums up my personality," says Bob with a laugh.
At York, Bob juggles a heavy course load with the rigors of independence and frequent requests to speak about disabilities to politicians, doctors, York students, children with disabilities, their parents and others.
"Our needs may be different but those with disabilities deserve the same opportunities as everyone else. It's an important message to spread so I keep telling it and I hope people keep listening. It's just a little bit that I can give back to Erinoak and to the entire disabled community."
Bob lives in residence on campus where he shares a specially-equipped suite with a roommate and receives attendant services through March of Dimes to help him with personal care, cooking, and eating. "It was a big step to independence but, as always, Erinoak was there," says Bob. "Not only did they help find answers to all my questions but they reassured me that it is possible, that I would be okay, and not to limit myself."
In class, Bob has access to note takers or scribes if needed but generally manages with a laptop. With one finger, he types his essays faster than most people do with ten. His grades still tops, Bob's dream of serving in the justice system is well within reach.
Then again, he's been practicing his whole life, teaching others never to pre-judge. He's proof too, of the possibilities given the opportunities. Brilliant and captivating, Bob is making a difference long before he passes the bar. Apart from his speaking engagements and community activities, he worked this past summer in the important role of Goal Support Worker in Erinoak's Independent Living Program.
Held annually over two weeks, the Independent Living Program gives teenagers aged 16-19 with physical disabilities the opportunity to learn and practice life skills that will help them live independently when they get older. Skills training can include anything from grocery shopping to preparing a personal budget or identifying community supports – useful tools that will ease the transition to adulthood for young people.
"The Independent Living Program provides a safe environment where kids can identify their goals and experience practical learning opportunities," says Erinoak Transitions Coordinator Jon Greenaway. "It also introduces them to people in the community who are doing the things they want to do and gives them the confidence to know they can do it too."
As a successful graduate of the program, Bob was a perfect choice to come back and be a mentor for this year's participants.
"Bob is very good at helping kids break down their goals and accomplish them," Greenaway explains. "As a successful university student, he is a great example for the kids. I think it's also important for them to see that Bob has gone through the program and come back to get a good job."
As he continues his studies and works toward his personal goals, Bob's example will only become more powerful. His story so far suggests that he has a very bright future ahead of him.