Mr. Speaker, last weekend I was saddened to hear of the loss of Gary McPherson. We mourn the passing but celebrate the many accomplishments of this small giant.
Gary was a fighter. When he contracted polio as a child, they said he did not have much time, but he proved his doctors wrong. For 55 years he carried on his life, got married to his wife, Val, had two beautiful children, Keiko and Jamie, and was an advocate for disabled people in Alberta.
Through his actions he influenced public policy and made Alberta a better place to live for all those who suffer from a disability. He was a true champion and amassed an impressive record of getting results.
Gary's list of honours included Member of the Order of Canada, Alberta Order of Excellence, president of the Canadian Wheelchair Sports Association, chair of the Premier's Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities and more.
I was one of countless people who called Gary a friend, and we will all have fond memories to cherish.
We will remember his strength and determination, and we will never forget his quest for a better tomorrow for the disabled people of Alberta and Canada.