Stanhope, P.E.I. — On a sunny Sunday at Stanhope Beach, organisers and participants gathered for the province’s first Access Beach Day, a hands-on showcase of the equipment and supports that can make beach time possible for Islanders with physical disabilities.
Opening the shoreline to more Islanders
The event was a collaboration between ParaSport and Recreation P.E.I., the Spinal Cord Injury Association of P.E.I. and Parks Canada. Organisers said the goal was practical: let people try mobility mats, floating wheelchairs and other aids so they can see what works for them and make informed choices about getting to and into the water.
For many Islanders, beaches are central to summer life. At Stanhope — part of P.E.I. National Park — the rental of accessible equipment was demonstrated on site, giving participants a direct experience of how the tools function in sand and surf.
Personal experience at the water’s edge
For 22‑year‑old Fenix Doherty‑Kirby, the floating wheelchair offered more than a novelty. They said a hip injury two years ago had left them unable to enjoy the water without help.
“I have to have my friends help me into the water.… I wouldn’t be able to stay in for very long. Now, I can go into the water.… I feel like I’m swimming now.”
The day provided the kind of independent access that can restore simple pleasures and long‑held memories, organisers said. Demonstrations allowed people to see how the devices performed in real conditions rather than on paper.
Organisers emphasise choice and opportunity
Craig MacDougall, co‑ordinator with ParaSport and Recreation P.E.I., stressed the importance of creating opportunities for Islanders to try equipment before deciding whether to incorporate beach visits into their routines.
“If at least they have the opportunity to experience it, then they can choose whether they want to continue coming to the beach or try something else,” he said, adding that everyone should have the chance to participate in Island life.
Christine Stavert, a board member with ParaSport and Recreation P.E.I., noted that beaches are a significant part of the Island’s culture and recreation, and that accessibility helps ensure those places are welcoming to more people.
What was on show
Equipment demonstrated at the event included items already available for rental at Stanhope Beach in the national park. Participants were able to walk on mobility mats, transfer into floating wheelchairs and test how the devices handled sand and surf.
- Mobility mats — create a stable surface over sand for wheeled devices and walkers.
- Floating wheelchairs — designed to allow users to enter the water with buoyant support.
- On‑site demonstrations — staff and volunteers assisted with transfers and explained safe use.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mobility mats | Provide a firm surface across sand |
| Floating wheelchairs | Enable users to enter and float in water |
Local impact and practical information
Events such as Access Beach Day aim both to raise awareness and to normalise the idea that accessible recreation is part of public services. For Islanders who have been unsure whether returning to the beach is feasible, the demonstrations offered a low‑pressure way to find out.
Organisers recommend contacting ParaSport and Recreation P.E.I., the Spinal Cord Injury Association of P.E.I. or Parks Canada to learn more about availability, rental procedures and any seasonal scheduling for accessible equipment at Stanhope and other park beaches.
Beyond equipment, community support remains essential. Volunteers and family members often provide hands‑on assistance for transfers and safety in the water, and co‑ordinated programs can help match people with the right combination of aids and support.
Looking ahead
The inaugural day was both a practical demonstration and a statement about inclusion: that shorelines should be accessible to Islanders of all abilities. Organisers said they hope the event inspires more people to try accessible recreation and encourages ongoing investment in equipment and training.
For many participants, the outcome was simple and immediate — returning to the beach with greater independence and the chance to reclaim a piece of Island life.
This coverage was reported from Stanhope and compiled from statements and on‑site demonstrations at the event.
