Willow Square Curling Group, image provided by AHS
Wheelchair Curling Brings Joy to Willow Square Residents in Fort McMurray
FORT McMURRAY, AB — Residents of Willow Square Continuing Care Centre are embracing the sport of curling through a recreational therapy program that promotes inclusion, socialization, and wellness. The initiative began this past winter with the goal of allowing Alberta Health Services (AHS) continuing care residents to participate in modified wheelchair curling at the Fort McMurray Oilsands Curling Club.
“Curling is one of many inclusive recreational activities we offer to Willow Square residents,” said Tiffany Butler, a recreation therapist at Willow Square.
“These opportunities allow our residents to integrate and socialize within the community while improving their overall health and wellness.”
Four to six residents travel by the Willow Square handibus to the curling club at MacDonald Island Park, with sessions scheduled based on ice availability and other recreation programs.
For safety, residents remain seated in wheelchairs, which are cleaned before entering the ice. A portable ramp, purchased with an Alberta Therapeutic Recreation Association bursary, provides safe access to the ice surface. Continuing Care Residents use a half-sheet of ice, selecting between two sizes of curling rocks and delivering them with a delivery stick while staff sweep.
The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “I loved it. I hope we go again. It was fun,” said Nicole Belanger, a Willow Square resident. Recreation therapy assistant Hailey Kanak sees many benefits in the sport of curling, saying it is an adaptable activity that supports physical, cognitive, and social well-being.
AHS Recreation Therapy continues to explore opportunities for residents to participate in community-based programs. Last year, residents attended the Canadian Under-21 Curling Championships and Baseball Canada Cup. Future plans include fishing, ice skating, and adaptive wheelchair winter trail walks.
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