Success Stories

After struggling for years with chronic health problems and mobility issues, Tammy Button of Saint John is once again enjoying the sewing and knitting that helps her relax and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. Tammy, 57, is a single mom living on social assistance. A series of car accidents, compounded with long-standing health conditions including a rare form of cystic fibrosis, left her unable to work and vulnerable to the pitfalls of poverty. “It’s a struggle,” she says, … [Read more...] about Tammy’s Story: Rediscovering life’s simple pleasures through sewing and knitting

Kevin Brawn had pretty much reached bottom when he accepted the help offered to him through Ability New Brunswick. He credits that for turning his life around. Kevin, 51, was living rough at a camp on the Dungarvon, near Renous, N.B. after he returned to his native New Brunswick following several years in Alberta. Dealing with poorly controlled diabetes and the effects of a stroke that impedes movement on his left side, Kevin says he had no money and no prospects. It was the Heart and … [Read more...] about Kevin’s story: Starting over after living rough

Theresa MacLeod used to be a “beach bum” – spending countless summer days working as a lifeguard and swim instructor. Then a diagnosis of neurosarcoidosis, a disease that causes inflammation in the nervous system, changed all that: for the last five years, Theresa has needed a power wheelchair to get around. That put an end to her beach days, or so she thought. Then she learned from Ability New Brunswick about new accessibility features at Parlee Beach, including beach mats and beach … [Read more...] about Theresa’s Story: ‘Reborn’ thanks to new beach accessibility