Alexandra Creighton
2002 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador
Once described by a radio producer as a “natural who had great timing”, 13-year old Alexandra Creighton is no stranger to being in the spotlight. Winner of numerous speech competitions at school, Alex’s passion for public speaking is a perfect fit for her role as the 2002 Provincial Easter Seal Ambassador.
A Grade seven student at Fieldstone Day School in Toronto, Alex lives with her two parents, a younger sister and a dog and cat (and hopefully a rabbit on the way!). Alex was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy at birth but has never let that stop her from taking part in what she loves to do, and the list is almost endless! From horseback riding to swimming, skiing to cottaging, Alex always makes time for one of her favourite people – her Grandma whom she loves going to the theatre with.
Well-liked by many in her neighbourhood and at school, Alex enjoys hanging out with her friends and having sleepovers. However, she also understands the importance of helping others and has taken part in many community fundraisers. There have been numerous times when has she sold the most cookies of all her fellow Girl Guides!
Not only does Alex have a down-to-earth and approachable personality, she also impresses others with her level of sophistication. She loves to take part in any fancy occasion and will get dressed up at a moment’s notice. Her confidence in new situations and ability to interact with people of all ages will certainly make her an inspiring Ambassador for children, youth and young adults with physical disabilities across Ontario.
As for future dreams, Alex hopes to become a broadcaster one day … from her past experiences, we have no doubt that she will speak her way to the top!
Michael Kuijpers
2002 Provincial Easter Seals Ambassador
Having been featured in half a dozen newspaper articles, Michael Kuijpers will have no problem as the 2002 Provincial Easter Seal Ambassador – he is already a media star in his own right!
This bright and articulate 13-year old lives in St. Thomas with his mom and two cats, Mitten and Minou. He currently attends Monsignor Morrison Catholic School as a Grade eight student. Michael has Hereditary Motor Sensory Neuropathy, a condition that makes it difficult for messages from the brain to reach the muscles in his hands and feet. However, as a member of the St. Thomas Jumbo Jets swim team and a recipient of numerous medals in soccer, it is Michael’s positive and determined attitude that really sets him apart from the rest.
Not only is he a gifted athlete, Michael also participates in a long list of artistic pursuits. He recently passed his Grade four piano exam and loves to sing, act, take art lessons and even speak a second language, Dutch! His speaking skills are so advanced that he has won many awards for speeches given at school and the local Optimists club.
Last summer Michael visited one of his favourite places, Woodeden Easter Seal Camp, where he met many friends that he still keeps in touch with. “I was in the pool everyday and I really liked the pottery lessons,” gushes Michael. “They even allowed me to show off and play the piano in the Karaoke room”.
It is obvious that getting people to stop and listen is just one of the many talents that will make Michael an incredible Ambassador in educating others about children and youth with physical disabilities and the potential they hold.