Frank Gilham, seen here at the Dec. 6 meeting of city council, has received provincial recognition for his work to advance quality of life for persons with disabilities.--News photo Collin Gallant
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Hatter Frank Gilham has been recognized for his contributions to make better the lives of those living with disabilities.
The long-time financial officer of REDI Enterprises was presented with the Gary MacPherson Leadership award from Premier’s Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities at the Dec. 6 meeting of Medicine Hat city council.
Gilham suffered a spinal injury in his late teens in 1970, which left him requiring a wheelchair. He thanked his large family for supporting him in initial recovery, and pushing to keep him an active outdoorsman.
“In some ways it was better, as I can’t remember the last fish I cleaned,” he joked. “But being a farmer or mechanic was out of the question, so I became a certified accountant.
“It was incredibly rewarding work (with REDI) and the agency grew to be one of the largest in Medicine Hat. Meaningful employment empowers individuals to pursue all their dreams.”
Since the mid 2000s he has also been a volunteer member of the city’s advisory committee on disability issues.
Gilham told council the major challenge is educating home builders on the needs of standardized accessible building styles, such as doorway width to accommodate wheelchairs.
Brooks-Medicine Hat MLA Michaela Frey helped make the presentation, joining the council meeting via video call from Edmonton at that time.
Frey, a member of the Premier’s Council, said Gilham was a family friend and ultimately deserving of the award.
