Meet Jen

A home, a family, and a life transformed.

My name is Jen, and I have been a resident at the McQueen Home in Edmonton for 14 years.

Five days after my 30th birthday, my life changed in an instant when an accident left me paralyzed. Before that, I was always on the go. I loved being active and played just about every sport I could—hockey since I was 12, fastball where I proudly considered myself the best catcher out there, slow pitch, and ball hockey. I also had a full and busy social life, always surrounded by people and activity.

McQueen Home wasn’t the first place I called home after my accident, but when a spot opened up, I knew I had to take it. Looking back now, it was truly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

Over the years, I’ve built so many wonderful memories here. Some of my favourites have been going to hockey games with my roommates, both past and present. Around the holidays, I especially love spending time with my family and with my roommates’ families too. Those moments together have become such an important part of my life.

“Living in an Easter Seals home has taught me to be independent, make new friends, go out to the gym, and do normal activities.”

For me, this letter is an opportunity to say is thank you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. The generosity of donors like you has made life so much more manageable for me since my accident, and I would want you to know that your kindness truly changes lives.

I invite you to come visit us at McQueen Home for coffee, so you could see for yourself what your support has helped create. This is more than a place to live – it is a real home, a community, and a family. That kind of support is life-changing. I thank you again and again for being part of it.

With gratitude,

Jen