Andrew is a very social and smart teenager who always seeks to participate in activities without support, especially outdoors and sports.
Living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and being so reliant on others every day made Andrew’s longing for moments of independence stronger than most people. In his manual wheelchair, he’s limited to the areas that he’s able to explore. It doesn’t allow him to experience the trails, nature and fresh air that he dreams of.
While imagining his Dream with Shine, it was apparent that many of the all-terrain wheelchairs on the market were impossible for him to transfer in and out of because of his limited mobility and strength in his limbs. Rigs that were being considered were thousands of dollars; a cost that’s out of range for many families like Andrew’s.
Thanks to Shine supporters, Andrew’s Dream of traversing on his own through mud and snow came true when he received the Magic 360 all-terrain rig. For the first time in his teenage years, he isn’t limited by different landscapes or inaccessible trails. Increased freedom and independence is carried far beyond the trails, giving him the confidence to pursue his passions.
Just months after receiving his Dream, Andrew represented Canada at the First International Boccia Competition in Brazil, earning Bronze (in individual play) and Gold (in pairs). In an article for Boccia Canada, he shares, “This medal means so much to me and I hope to have more opportunities in the future to compete for Canada internationally!” Then, a year later, he made the podium again at the Chile 2025 Youth Parapan Am Games, winning Silver, adding “It was awesome representing Canada on the International scene, and I am proud to bring home a silver medal.”
Andrew’s Shine Dream didn’t just expand where he could go, it strengthened who he is becoming: a confident Canadian para-athlete, and a bright, young person building a future filled with possibility as he is pursuing a degree in engineering at university.
