Follow Ramesh's Journey

In 1981 my biological mother in India, Lakshmi, made one the biggest decisions of her life, so I could have a better life. I contracted polio 25 years after the world had a prevention. Polio paralyzed my legs, and my mother could not give me the care I needed. I was placed in an orphanage, and my Canadian parents, Ron and Jan Ferris, began the lengthy process of bringing me to Canada.

As my adoptive parents eagerly awaited my arrival into the country, they learned that the Government of Canada had denied me access under Section 19 of the Canadian Immigration Act, stating that because of my medical condition, I could cause excessive demands on health or social services. CBC Yukon picked up on this story, and it went national. My parents appealed the decision to the federal Minister of Immigration at the time, Dr. Lloyd Axworthy. Months after the initial adoption process was started, I became Yukon’s first finalized international adoption. This adoption became possible all because of one man, and that was Dr. Lloyd Axworthy.

This afternoon, I had the opportunity to go the University of Winnipeg, where Dr. Axworthy is president, and meet him face to face for the first time. I showed him the leg brace I first received at three-and-a-half, and thanked him for giving me the opportunity to walk. It was a pleasure to meet with you today, Dr. Axworthy, and thank you again for the decision you made: it allowed for my arrival into Canada September 27th, 1982.

The remainder of the day was full of meetings. The team had an opportunity to go to the Manitoba Legislative Building and meet with the provincial Minister of Healthy Living, The Hon. Kerri Irvin-Ross. Thanks so much, Minister Irvin-Ross, for taking the time to meet with team, and offering to help spread the message of Cycle to Walk with your colleagues across Canada.

The team at campaign headquarters in Whitehorse has searched for corporate sponsors outside of the Yukon, and has been fortunate enough to have Polycast International come on as a Silver Spoke Sponsor. Today I had an opportunity to personally thank Leah, Paul, John and all the other staff for their support of Cycle to Walk. To my surprise, the employees pitched in money and made a donation to Cycle to Walk on top of the generous sponsorship previously given. Thanks so much to everyone at Polycast International - you truly are a community-minded organization. I invite all corporations in Canada to follow Polycast’s lead and sign on to become a Gold, Silver, or Bronze Spoke Sponsor of Cycle to Walk. By participating in the this exciting campaign you are sending the message that we need to work together for a polio free world.

The day ended with a lovely home cooked meal at the Madden household. Afterwards, we hit the street and gave the hand cycles a spin.  Thanks to the Madden Family the fabulous meal, and for all of your support!