Sandie Rinaldo

It’s fitting that the Toronto International Film Festival is marking its 50th milestone with a candid look at the life of a Canadian comedic icon. The opening film, “John Candy: I Like Me”, is a revealing documentary that delves not just into the legendary actor’s public accolades, but also his private struggles. One thing is clear throughout the film – he is universally beloved and for good reason.

Shortly after Rick Hansen survived a vehicle accident that left him paralyzed, the then 15-year-old decided he wouldn't let his disability hold him back. Fast forward 50 years, Hansen is a household name across Canada and the world for championing accessibility rights and competing on the world stage.

WILLIAMS LAKE, B.C. - I remember reporting on Rick Hansen’s Man in Motion Tour for CTV National News. It was 1986 and the wheelchair athlete-turned-advocate for those with physical disabilities impressed me with his drive and persistence. Over 26 arduous months, he propelled his wheelchair across 34 countries raising not just awareness for spinal cord injuries, but more than $26 million to start a foundation to help fund research.