Attendant Services on Campus

Mark Woitzik learned the value of a helping hand after his life took a sudden unexpected turn in 1991 and forced him to adapt in order to continue moving forward. Woitzik joined other students in a water and mudslide activity during frosh week in his first year at McMaster University. In the blink of an eye, his neck jerked backwards, dislocating two vertebrae and leaving him face down in the muck with no ability to move or breathe. Those brief moments paralyzed him from the chest down and he was now quadriplegic.

After an intensive period of rehabilitation, Woitzik chose to continue his studies the next year at York University, where the school’s on-campus attendant services, provided by Ontario March of Dimes, enabled him to get the most out of his time at York. "They helped me with daily living, everything from cooking to carrying books to note-taking. I was able to participate fully and was integrated completely into student life," he says.

Ontario March of Dimes’ Attendant Services, funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, has helped to make York University one of the most accessible campuses in Toronto for those with disabilities since its beginning in 1996. The service is available to staff, students and faculty. In this current year, students have filled 12 of 15 available spaces, a number which fluctuates with the level of enrollment each year.

The 24-hour program gives York University a decided advantage in attracting potential students with physical disabilities. Other Toronto schools arrange for attendants who are not permanently stationed on campus, and who leave once clients’ needs have been met each day. Ontario March of Dimes gives its York consumers an extra measure of convenience and security.

Now running his own estate planning and real estate law practice in Whitby, Ontario, Mark Woitzik reciprocates the help he has received by donating a percentage from each case he closes to charities like Ontario March of Dimes. Woitzik speaks proudly and humbly of what he has been able to accomplish. "I would never have gotten to where I am without the March of Dimes helping me get back on my feet. They’ve been great."

In celebrating its 50th anniversary of bringing independence and confidence into the lives of adults with disabilities, Ontario March of Dimes is proud to give capable, goal-driven young people like Mark Woitzik the chance to pursue their career dreams and have the satisfaction of contributing their talents to their communities.

As the largest service provider of attendant services in the province, Ontario March of Dimes has a strong commitment to serving adults regardless of their physical disability.