This past Sunday, the press was invited to take a tour of the grounds at the IPM. Having no reporter on hand to go, I had the task of attending. On reaching the site, I looked over the area and realised that there was no way I was going to be able to walk the distance to the tent set up for us. I have a disability and am waiting for hip surgery. I can walk a block with some difficulty, but that’s about it.
However, the organisers of this event had all their bases covered, including accessibility for those like me who think they can’t attend the event due to their handicap. They have provided all we need to attend. Once you arrive on your chosen day, there is a vast parking area set up across the street from the IPM grounds. Each section of this area is marked with numbers. Wagons arrive to pick you up, they then stamp your hand and off you go. The stamp is to remind people like me who might forget where they parked their car.
These wagons, which can easily support my walker should I feel the need to bring it, tour the grounds, picking and dropping people off at all of the various events. There are also rest stops for those needing them. The Municipality is providing a sheltered rest stop as well.
All mobility scooters (personal and rented) are permitted at the IPM. You can also rent a scooter for the day or the week. Reservations are for full days or for the week, none by the hour. To reserve, call 1-800-265-5500 ext. 203, or ext. 208, between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday, or email ellamay@medeoxmobilityinmotion.ca or terrie@medeoxmobilityinmotion.ca.
Service dogs are also permitted on the grounds. There is a Sensory and Quiet space in the Library section of the Education Tent (Hydro One Education Centre). And, yes, they have street and event signs marked clearly throughout the grounds. There are also over 1,000 volunteers should you need assistance.
I am glad I attended this press conference. Before this, I was convinced that there was no way someone like me could attend the IPM itself. But there is no excuse now for any of us. So come out and enjoy the event, you will be well cared for.
I would also like to thank the organisers and volunteers for the tour of the entire area, including the RV campground. It is impressive what they have achieved in such a short time. I have spent many years walking through this area, and the transformation has been incredible, all to be returned to its natural state when all this is over.
Truly amazing and impressive!
And best of all, they have accessible washrooms.
